Anambra State First Lady, Dr. Nonye Soludo, has urged residents to take precautions against extreme heat as temperatures rise across the country, warning that vulnerable groups could face an increased risk of heat-related illnesses.
Soludo, founder of the non-governmental organisation Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo, also called on relevant agencies to pay special attention to elderly people, babies and individuals living with hypertension, diabetes or kidney disease.
Her warning follows a projection by the Climate Impact Lab that Nigeria could record an additional 31,400 heat-related deaths between September 2026 and February 2027 as an unusually strong El Niño weather pattern intensifies.
According to the report, Nigeria is among the countries expected to record the highest numbers of additional heat-related deaths globally during the six-month period. Nearly half of the 66,800 deaths projected across the Sahel region are expected to occur in Nigeria.
The report, published on 22 September 2026 and titled ‘451,000 at Risk: Where Action Can Save Lives During the Super El Niño’, estimates that 451,000 additional heat-related deaths could occur worldwide between June 2026 and February 2027, compared with a normal year.
Reacting to the projections in a statement issued on Sunday, Soludo advised residents to stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, wear light clothing and ensure their homes were adequately ventilated.
She also encouraged residents to check on family members and seek emergency medical assistance when symptoms of severe heat illness occur.
“As we head deep into a period of increased heat, I encourage every family to take simple but important precautions to protect their health.
“Stay hydrated, avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, wear light clothing, and keep your homes well ventilated.
“Please pay special attention to the elderly, babies, and persons living with hypertension, diabetes, or kidney disease, as they may be more vulnerable to extreme heat,” she said.
The first lady further advised residents to check on their loved ones, particularly in the mornings and evenings, to identify possible signs of heat-related illness early.
“Also, check on your loved ones, especially in the mornings and evenings. If anyone shows signs of severe heat illness, move them to a cool place, begin cooling their body, and seek emergency medical attention immediately,” she added.
Soludo reminded residents that Anambra State’s emergency telephone number remained 112, urging them to contact emergency responders whenever necessary.
“Anambra’s emergency line is still 112. Remember that a little caution today can save a life tomorrow,” she said.
