The World Health Organisation (WHO) has said investing in climate-resilient health systems is a crucial priority.
The Head of Mission and Representative of World Health Organisation (WHO) Nigeria, Dr Walter Kazadi Mulombo, stated this recently during the launch of Nigeria’s Climate Health Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment Report 2024 at the Joint Annual Review 2024 (JAR 2024) in Abuja.
Dr Mulombo said the Climate Health Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment Report 2024 is a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to addressing the health impacts of climate change.
The WHO kingpin explained that, at the 77th World Health Assembly, climate change was recognised as the most significant threat to global health in the 21st century, profoundly affecting human lives.
“It threatens the essential ingredients of good health, clean air, safe drinking water, nutritious food supply and safe shelter, and has the potential to undermine decades of progress in the health system,” he said.
He further stated that the rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and shifting disease patterns are already having severe consequences on health systems, livelihoods, and well-being, particularly among vulnerable populations.
Dr Mulombo emphasised that the alarming projection in the near future, is 21% of Nigeria’s disease burden could be climate-related. “This underscores the urgent need for transformative action”.
“This report provides vital data that will inform Nigeria’s Health National Adaptation Plan (HNAP), a framework that will guide national health policies and ensure resilience against climate-related health risks,” he stressed.
He noted that this initiative has established a sub-national foundation for advancing health system climate initiatives and ensuring that local health systems are informed on the health impacts of climate change.
Dr Mulombo urged stakeholders to build a stronger health system capable of protecting all Nigerians from the risks posed by a changing climate.
