Maiduguri, the heart of Nigeria’s Borno State, is silently grappling with an adversary that’s affecting more than just the environment – climate change. The rising temperatures and erratic weather patterns might not scream catastrophe, but their toll on public health is undeniable.

The increasingly hot days are more than just discomfort. They bring a surge in heat-related illnesses, from heat exhaustion to heatstroke. Vulnerable populations, including children and the elderly, bear the brunt of these health risks.

Changing climate patterns influence the spread of diseases. The city has seen an uptick in diseases like malaria and dengue, as rising temperatures create favorable conditions for disease-carrying vectors.
Water scarcity resulting from droughts and shifting rainfall patterns leads to unhygienic water sources and a higher risk of waterborne diseases, jeopardizing public health.

Another risk faced is air pollution from extended droughts which leads to respiratory issues, affecting both children and adults. Dust and air quality pose a growing threat.

For the past few weeks, Maiduguri have experienced haze weather known as harmattan haze during the season typically between November and February. Harmattan haze is caused by the movement of dry, dusty air from the Sahara Desert. This haze can have several effects on health.
Respiratory Issues: The fine dust particles in the haze can irritate the respiratory system, leading to symptoms such as coughing, sneezing, and worsening of preexisting respiratory conditions like asthma or bronchitis.
The haze can reduce visibility, making travel and outdoor activities more challenging and potentially increasing the risk of accidents.

Dust particles in the air can cause skin dryness and irritation. Additionally, they may lead to eye irritation, including redness and discomfort.

Increased Vulnerability to Infections: Prolonged exposure to haze can weaken the body’s natural defense mechanisms, potentially increasing susceptibility to respiratory infections.

To mitigate the health effects of Maiduguri’s harmattan haze, individuals can take precautions such as staying indoors during peak haze hours, using air purifiers, wearing masks, and staying hydrated to help soothe irritated respiratory passages. It’s important for local authorities to issue health advisories and take measures to reduce the impact of haze on the population.

The health implications of climate change in Maiduguri are crystal clear. Urgent measures are required to protect the health of the city’s residents. We urge the government to invest in healthcare infrastructure, public awareness campaigns, and sustainable practices to mitigate climate change’s impact on health.

Maiduguri’s fight against climate change is more than an environmental struggle; it’s a battle for the health and well-being of its people.

Faith John
University of Maiduguri

Faith John

The significance weight of a newborn carries more than mere numbers on a scale. Low birth weight, a silent but profound challenge, casts a shadow over the promising dawn of infancy.

The World Health Organization (WHO) sees low weight as weight at birth less than 2500 g (5.5 lb). Low birth weight continues to be a significant public health problem globally and is associated with a range of both short- and long term consequences. Overall, it is estimated that 15% to 20% of all births worldwide are low birth weight, representing more than 20 million births a year.

At the forefront of concerns is the vulnerability of these infants to a myriad of health complications. From respiratory distress syndrome to developmental delays, low birth weight amplifies the risk of a spectrum of issues that can cast a long shadow into childhood and beyond. The fragility of underweight newborns demands vigilant medical care and heightened attention to safeguard their well-being.

Cognitive development, a cornerstone of a child’s future, stands at the crossroads when low birth weight enters the narrative. Research suggests that these infants may face a higher likelihood of cognitive impairments, affecting their learning abilities and academic achievements.

Low birth weight babies are more likely to have health problems later in their lives. These issues may be related to also being born prematurely, or to failing to get the nutrition they needed at critical times during their gestation. Early intervention and treatment are critical to helping growing kids develop normally.
The goal of the World Health Organisation is to achieve a 30% reduction in the number of infants born with a weight lower than 2500 g by the year 2025. This would translate into a 3% relative reduction per year between 2012 and 2025 and a reduction from approximately 20 million to about 14 million infants with low weight at birth.
WHO’s Member States have endorsed global targets for improving maternal, infant and young child nutrition and are committed to monitoring progress. The targets are vital for identifying priority areas for action and catalysing global change.
As medicine allows smaller and more prematurely born infants to survive, we see these children developing a range of health outcomes. Some have no illnesses or negative outcomes at all, while others continue to have slower growth, more illnesses, and other problems throughout their lives. Babies with low birth weight born into situations where they are at risk socially or economically are more at risk for health problems

About 80 percent of low birth weight infants suffer some long-term side effects, from impaired immune systems or lung problems to learning disabilities, behavior problems or even cerebral palsy. About 20 percent of premature and low birth weight babies go on to have no health problems at all. However, parents of all low birth weight infants must provide good nutrition and health care throughout childhood to ensure the best outcomes for these children.
Advances in medical science, coupled with proactive healthcare measures, offer a beacon for positive change. From innovative interventions during pregnancy to specialized neonatal care, the healthcare landscape is evolving to provide tailored solutions for newborns on the lower end of the weight spectrum.
The societal response to low birth weight must transcend the confines of the clinic and extend into communities, fostering a culture of awareness and support. Education on prenatal health, access to nutritional resources, and destigmatization of preconceived notions surrounding low birth weight are vital steps toward a more equitable start for every child.
Governments and health practitioners can play pivotal roles in addressing and reducing low birth weight by Investing in accessible and affordable prenatal care services, ensuring that all pregnant individuals have timely and comprehensive healthcare throughout their pregnancies.
Health practitioners should emphasize the importance of early and regular prenatal visits, monitoring the health of both the mother and the developing fetus. Implement programs that focus on improving overall maternal health, including nutrition, mental health support, and lifestyle guidance. Educate women on the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle before and during pregnancy, addressing factors such as proper nutrition, regular exercise, and avoiding harmful substances.
Governments should work towards reducing socioeconomic inequalities that contribute to disparities in birth weight. This involves initiatives that improve access to education, employment opportunities, and social services. Ensure that healthcare facilities are adequately equipped to provide specialized care for low birth weight infants, including neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and trained healthcare professionals. Health practitioners should receive ongoing training to stay updated on the latest advancements in neonatal care.
By adopting a comprehensive and collaborative approach, governments and health practitioners can significantly contribute to the reduction of low birth weight, fostering healthier beginnings for the next generation. Thanks to the WHO Global nutrition target which is aimed at reducing low birth weight.

Faith John Gwom
Department of Mass Communication
University of Maiduguri

Faith John

Plateau State, with its enchanting landscapes, temperate climate, and cultural diversity, possesses immense tourism potential. Yet, the dilapidated roads act as a deterrent for both domestic and international tourists. Visitors are discouraged by the arduous journey, navigating through pothole-riddled roads that not only dampen the travel experience but also pose safety concerns.

The repercussions of neglecting these vital roads stretch far beyond inconvenience. At the forefront is the safety concern: the treacherous minefield of potholes paves the way for accidents, causing injuries and sometimes tragic loss of life. Commuters navigate a perilous obstacle course daily, while vehicles bear the brunt of the relentless wear and tear, escalating maintenance costs for already burdened residents.

The Jos to Abuja Road are vital transportation routes that play a pivotal role in connecting Plateau State to other key regions in Nigeria. However, the condition of these roads has significant implications for commerce, transportation, and the socio-economic landscape of not just Plateau State but the entire country.

The road’s state has also affected agricultural activities in the region, as farmers struggle to transport their produce to markets, leading to economic losses and decreased income for rural communities. Additionally, the road’s condition discourages potential investors and hampers the socio-economic growth of Plateau , Abuja and Nasarawa States.

The Jos to Abuja and Lafia Road serves as a crucial link between Plateau State and the federal capital, Abuja. This road holds immense importance as it connects Jos, a key city in Plateau State, to the political, economic, and administrative hub of the nation.

The poor condition of the Jos to and Abuja and Lafia Road significantly affects transportation and trade activities between Plateau State and Abuja. The Jos to Abuja and Lafia route’s deteriorating state increases transportation costs, leads to longer travel times, and poses safety risks to commuters.

Moreover, the road’s condition adversely impacts tourism, discouraging visitors from exploring the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Plateau State. It affects businesses, limits job opportunities, and constrains economic growth in the region.

Furthermore, the health implications are alarming. The dust clouds that envelop the air due to road disintegration pose significant respiratory hazards, particularly affecting vulnerable demographics like children and the elderly. Health hazards coupled with prolonged commute times take a toll on the mental and physical well-being of the populace, leading to stress and reduced productivity.

The impact of poorly maintained roads on tourism, investment, and the overall growth of Plateau State, especially Jos, cannot be overstated. The road network serves as the lifeline for tourism and investment, playing a pivotal role in fostering economic growth and development. However, the dismal condition of roads in Plateau State presents a formidable barrier to the realization of its full potential.

However, amidst the chaos and despair, a glimmer of hope shines through. Grassroots initiatives emerge as communities along the Abuja road band together, filling potholes, organizing cleanup drives, and amplifying their voices on social platforms. These actions serve as a testament to the resilience and determination of Jos’s inhabitants, a beacon of hope in the midst of adversity.

The Jos to Abuja Road are vital transportation routes that play a pivotal role in connecting Plateau State to other key regions in Nigeria. However, the condition of these roads has significant implications for commerce, transportation, and the socio-economic landscape of not just Plateau State but the entire country.

The road’s state has also affected agricultural activities in the region, as farmers struggle to transport their produce to markets, leading to economic losses and decreased income for rural communities. Additionally, the road’s condition discourages potential investors and hampers the socio-economic growth of both Plateau and Nasarawa States.

The Jos to Abuja and Lafia Road serves as a crucial link between Plateau State and the federal capital, Abuja. This road holds immense importance as it connects Jos, a key city in Plateau State, to the political, economic, and administrative hub of the nation.

The poor condition of the Jos to and Abuja and Lafia Road significantly affects transportation and trade activities between Plateau State and Abuja. The Jos to Abuja and Lafia route’s deteriorating state increases transportation costs, leads to longer travel times, and poses safety risks to commuters.

Moreover, the road’s condition adversely impacts tourism, discouraging visitors from exploring the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of Plateau State. It affects businesses, limits job opportunities, and constrains economic growth in the region.

The bad road of the Jos-Lafia Road and Jos to Abuja Road hampers trade, transportation, agricultural activities, tourism, and overall socio-economic development in Plateau State. Urgent attention, comprehensive maintenance, and infrastructure improvements are imperative to unleash the economic potential of these routes, foster regional connectivity, and facilitate sustainable growth and development in Plateau State and beyond.

The call for action reverberates across the city. Community leaders, advocacy groups, and residents rally for government intervention. The urgency to prioritize road maintenance and rehabilitation echoes through the corridors of power. It’s not merely about enhancing convenience; it’s a matter of safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and the city’s future.
Government should mend the roads, mend the future. The fate of this vibrant city hinges on the concerted efforts to address this pressing issue. For the roads not only connect places but also weave the fabric of a community, and neglecting them leads to the unraveling of its very essence.

Faith John
Department of Mass Communications
University of Maiduguri