The Medical Guild has appealed to the Lagos State Government to provide free drinking-water kiosks and public water points. The guild said the intervention would ease the impact of heatwaves on vulnerable residents. The chairman, Dr Oluwole Olusanya, spoke at a news conference on Monday. The event was part of the guild’s centenary celebration.
Heatwaves are a growing public health threat in Lagos. The city’s high temperatures, humidity, traffic congestion and unreliable electricity increase the risk of heat-related illness. The World Health Organisation has classified the ongoing El Niño event as a major global public health threat. It has projected 31,400 deaths in Nigeria over the next six months. El Niño is a natural climate phenomenon involving unusually warm sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. It alters rainfall patterns, affecting farming, water supplies and food prices. Heat stress exacerbates cardiovascular disease, diabetes, mental health issues and asthma.
Olusanya said proactive governments in other countries provide free water to reduce morbidity and mortality during heatwaves. He advised residents to wear light, breathable clothing, drink water regularly, stay in cool, well-ventilated spaces, limit exposure to direct sunlight, eat balanced meals rich in fruits and vegetables, and get adequate sleep. He acknowledged the electricity challenge. He advised households to improve cross-ventilation by opening windows where safe and to maintain hydration.
Olusanya also addressed infectious disease preparedness. He expressed confidence in Lagos State’s capacity to respond to Ebola-related developments. The state managed COVID-19 and the 2014 Ebola outbreak. Its response drew international recognition. But he warned against complacency. He called for sustained investment in personal protective equipment, medical supplies, facilities, staff training and emergency-response systems. He emphasised continuous surveillance, early detection and infection prevention.
He also raised healthcare workers’ welfare. He called for improved working conditions, housing support, mortgage schemes, car loans and other benefits. He urged tax concessions and a Lagos-specific salary adjustment to reflect the high cost of living. He warned that poor remuneration drives doctors abroad. He identified artificial intelligence and digital health systems as tools for improving care. A digital bed-space coordination network could reduce delays in emergency treatment.
Winners: Residents, if water kiosks are provided. Healthcare workers, if welfare improves. The Lagos State Government, if it shows responsiveness. Patients, if digital coordination reduces delays. Losers: Residents without access to water. Doctors facing burnout and emigration pressures. The state government, if the heatwave causes mass casualties. The health system, if preparedness lapses.
Bottom Line: Heatwaves kill. The Medical Guild wants free water and better welfare. The state must act. The projected deaths are a warning. Hydration is a basic right.