Oluwafunbi Bello 
Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike
AWKA, Nigeria – Health authorities warn Nigerians to take urgent precautions as intensifying heatwave conditions across the country increase the risk of life-threatening heat-related illnesses.
The alert came on Friday from Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, who urges citizens to treat extreme heat as a serious public health threat.
“Heat-related illnesses can escalate quickly and may become life-threatening. Early medical intervention is crucial,” Obidike says.
The warning follows an advisory by the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), which confirms that heat stress is already posing serious health risks nationwide.
Children, elderly people, outdoor workers and individuals with underlying medical conditions remain the most vulnerable groups.
Doctors say symptoms of heat exhaustion and heatstroke include heavy sweating, weakness, dizziness, nausea and confusion.
Obidike advises Nigerians to drink between 2.5 and 3.5 litres of water daily, even when they do not feel thirsty.
He also warns against consuming caffeinated, sugary or alcoholic drinks, which can worsen dehydration.
To stay cool, residents are encouraged to use fans, air conditioners, cool baths and cross-ventilation, particularly during the hottest hours between noon and 4 p.m.
Given Nigeria’s electricity challenges, the commissioner recommends rechargeable fans as a practical alternative.
He also calls for community vigilance.
“Encourage vulnerable people to avoid staying outdoors for long periods and ensure proper ventilation indoors,” he says.
Experts warn that prolonged heatwaves can overwhelm public health systems if preventive measures are ignored.
Authorities urge Nigerians to take heat alerts seriously as temperatures remain unusually high across the country.
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Oluwatobi Adu 
Koko Maxwella 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 