FG Reiterates Commitment To Safeguarding Public Health Amidst Escalating Climate Challenges

Prof Muhammad Ali Pate 

 

“By identifying climate-related health risks, the report supports the creation of a resilient health system capable of addressing the challenges posed by a changing environment, underscoring our commitment to sustainable health security and the well-being of Nigerians." Prof Pate

Abuja, Nigeria. The Government of Nigeria has given its pledge to safeguard public health amidst escalating climate challenges that have impacted communities across the country.

Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, the country's Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare gave this commitment on Friday 8 November at the end of a 3-Day maiden edition of Nigeria’s Sector-Wide Joint Annual Health Review with participants cutting across the thirty-six states including international and local partners, stakeholders were all gathered.

The event also witnessed the launch of, the Climate Health Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment Report.

In his address, Pate noted that the report provided essential insights into the impacts of climate change on health across Nigeria.

“By identifying climate-related health risks, the report supports the creation of a resilient health system capable of addressing the challenges posed by a changing environment, underscoring our commitment to sustainable health security and the well-being of Nigerians.

“Another key outcome was the establishment of a dedicated Expert Working Group focused on strengthening our national health data systems. Through timely and reliable data, the group will empower us to track progress, address emerging health threats, and make informed, data-driven decisions essential to the sector’s success.

Country Representative of the World Health Organisation in Nigeria, Dr Walter Mulombo in his address, stated that the V&A report was a crucial milestone in Nigeria’s efforts to safeguard health in the face of climate change.

"Climate change was recognised as the most significant threat to global health in the 21st century at the 77th World Health Assembly." Mulombo stated.

“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.

“The alarming projection that in the near future, 21 per cent of Nigeria’s disease burden could be climate-related. This underscores the urgent need for transformative action.

“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.

“Consequently, the Climate Health Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment Report 2024 is a testament to Nigeria’s commitment to addressing the health impacts of climate change. Moreover, a precursor for action to advance health in all policies.”