Greenhouse gases blamed for rise in health issues, says government
The Federal Government has expressed alarm over the increasing rates of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases in Nigeria. Balarabe Lawal, Minister of Environment, highlighted the link between these illnesses and greenhouse gas emissions. He emphasized that the situation has escalated into a significant public health emergency. The government is urging stronger collaboration to address the health risks posed by environmental degradation.
What we know
- Balarabe Lawal raised concerns about the growing burden of respiratory and cardiovascular diseases linked to greenhouse gas emissions.
- The warning was delivered during a stakeholders’ engagement on the National Emergency Response to Environment-Related Diseases Arising from Greenhouse Gas Emissions in Abuja.
- Lawal noted that evidence from environmental surveillance and health statistics shows a troubling rise in such diseases.
- He stated that the lack of a coordinated national framework is worsening the situation and called for improved stakeholder collaboration.
- The meeting was organised by the Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON) to discuss strategies for addressing environment-related health risks.
