By Abdullahi Lukman
Experts have urged developing nations to take a more decisive action against air pollution, calling it a “silent killer.”
They were speaking at the International Summit on Climate Change and Air Pollution held recently at the Nigerian Institute of Medical Research in Lagos.
The summit, jointly organized by the Nigerian Heart Foundation (NHF) and the University of Manchester, had the theme: “Advancing Air Quality Policy through Innovation, Research, and Youth Engagement.”
Prof. Akin Osibogun, a public health expert from the University of Lagos, addressed the summit, highlighting the health dangers posed by air pollution and climate change, including respiratory diseases, cardiovascular conditions, and diabetes.
He called for stronger policies to reduce air pollution and protect public health, stressing that it was not enough to simply discourage practices like cooking with firewood without providing alternatives.
Osibogun also advocated for better enforcement of environmental policies to safeguard the well-being of citizens.
Sharing a poignant story, Prof. Obuks Ejohwomu of the University of Manchester discussed the tragic death of a young girl named Ella, who passed away at the age of nine due to exposure to pollutants from a busy road near her home.
Ejohwomu observed that such incidents could be more prevalent in developing countries, where air pollution often goes unchecked.
He emphasized the need for immediate awareness and action to combat the invisible, but deadly, effects of air pollution, calling it one of the leading global killers today.
Prof. Chinwe Obuaku, a consultant to the Governor of Osun State on climate change, also urged greater public education on pollution and proposed that climate change education be integrated into school curriculums.
She highlighted the importance of planting economic trees to help mitigate the impact of pollution.
Dr. Kingsley Akinroye, Executive Director of NHF, on his part, called for a unified effort across sectors, including government, media, and communities, to address air pollution.
He emphasized the need for clean cooking alternatives, stricter vehicle emission regulations, and adherence to the new World Health Organization (WHO) global air quality guidelines.
The summit’s final call to action urged nations to prioritize air pollution solutions by investing in cleaner fuels like Liquefied Petroleum Gas (LPG) and solar power, while advocating for improved air quality monitoring systems and innovative city designs to reduce pollution.
The experts warned that without immediate action, the health and well-being of millions could continue to be at risk.
