Exploring the impact of climate change on respiratory health in Nigeria: a scoping review of current research, government policies and programs

Faatihah Niyi-Odumosu, Obianuju B. Ozoh, Victor Oloruntoba Ope, Boni M. Ale, Olayemi Akinnola, Alexander Iseolorunkanmi and Davies Adeloye ()
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Faatihah Niyi-Odumosu: University of the West of England
Obianuju B. Ozoh: University of Lagos
Victor Oloruntoba Ope: Covenant University
Boni M. Ale: University of Abuja and University of Abuja Teaching Hospital
Olayemi Akinnola: Covenant University
Alexander Iseolorunkanmi: Covenant University Medical Centre, Covenant University
Davies Adeloye: Teesside University

Climatic Change, 2025, vol. 178, issue 3, No 2, 24 pages

Abstract: Abstract Climate change significantly impacts health globally, especially in densely populated, rapidly industrialising and ecologically diverse countries like Nigeria. We analysed climate change policies, studies, programs, and events at the national and subnational levels in Nigeria and explored their effects on public and respiratory health. Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for Scoping Reviews (PRISMAScR) checklist, we searched PubMed, African Journals Online (AJoL), Google Scholar and government data repositories on January 10, 2024. We synthesised results using an adapted sector-level framework based on the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines. Our searches returned 262 items, of which 32, including research studies, reports and grey documents, were retained for synthesis. Although some policies and programmes, like the Climate Change Act and Nigerian Climate and Health Observatory, exist, implementation is limited across many settings. Key reported respiratory pollutants in Nigeria include particulate matter (PM2.5, PM10), gaseous emissions (CO, SO₂, NOx), agricultural by-products (NH₃, H₂S), greenhouse gases (CH₄, CO₂), and microbial contaminants, which collectively increase the risk of respiratory inflammation, infections, and exacerbations of chronic respiratory symptoms and diseases. Our findings underscore a clear link between climate change and worsening respiratory health in many Nigerian settings. The current policies and programmes’ have limited impact, calling for comprehensive reforms, including improved enforcement and targeted action against major pollution sources, recognition of environmental rights, and stronger public health initiatives and community action.

Keywords: Climate change; Respiratory health; Nigeria; Policies (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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DOI: 10.1007/s10584-025-03880-0

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