The World Health Organisation (WHO) unveiled Nigeria’s first-ever Climate Health Vulnerability and Adaptation Assessment Report (VA) during the Health Sector-Wide Joint Annual Review (JAR 2024) on Friday, November 8, 2024, in Abuja.
The report underscores the urgent need for resilient health systems in the face of mounting climate risks.
The JAR serves as a vital platform for driving the Sector Wide Approach (SWAp) in Nigeria.
Delivering a goodwill message, Dr Walter Mulombo, WHO’s Head of Mission and Country Representative for Nigeria, said that climate change was the 21st century’s greatest health threat.
Mulombo expressed WHO’s continued dedication to Nigeria’s journey towards a climate-resilient health future.
“Rising temperatures, extreme weather events, and shifting disease patterns are already straining health systems, livelihoods, and well-being, especially among vulnerable populations.
“Together, we can protect Nigerians from the risks of a changing climate by building a health system that prioritises resilience,” he said.
The report projects that climate factors could soon account for up to 21 per cent of Nigeria’s disease burden, underscoring the urgency of transformative action.
It serves as a foundational step for developing Nigeria’s Health National Adaptation Plan (HNAP), a strategic framework to guide national policies in mitigating climate-related health risks.
The WHO collaborated with the Nigerian government, FCDO, World Bank, and UNICEF to produce the report, which aligns with the Paris Agreement and COP26 Health Programme.
Since 2021, WHO has supported Nigeria’s commitment to a sustainable and climate-resilient health system, reinforcing initiatives like the training of over 382 health workers across all states on climate-health impacts.
This effort aims to build a strong health infrastructure capable of withstanding climate shocks, benefiting all Nigerians.
Several local and international stakeholders, including donors and civil society organisations, were present at the launch event.
Several stakeholders applauded the new approach, with some stressing the importance of community engagement in the implementation of the reforms.
By Abujah Racheal
