- The workshop addressed the link between climate change and health, highlighting how environmental changes contribute to diseases like cardiovascular issues.
- Ambassador Usman Aliyu warned that chemical fertilisers and pesticides damage soil, contaminate groundwater, and lead to cancer and gastrointestinal problems.
- Stakeholders committed to spreading awareness, implementing public campaigns, and collaborating on strategies to mitigate the health impacts of climate change in Borno State.
The Borno State Ministry of Health, in collaboration with the Ministry of Environment and the UK FCCD Lafiya Program, organised a one-day workshop to address climate change and its health risks. The event brought together health workers, environmentalists, and other stakeholders to raise awareness of the dangers posed by climate change.
Dr Langana Bukar, Director General of the LAFIYA Project, highlighted the urgency of the workshop, citing recent floods in Maiduguri linked to climate change. He stressed the need for a deeper understanding of how climate shifts affect health.
“This workshop is crucial, especially after the floods that hit the state due to climate change,” said Dr. Bukar. “People need to know that climate change directly leads to health crises like cardiovascular diseases by affecting the environment.”
He explained that climate change increases harmful emissions like fluorine and carbon dioxide, worsening health problems. Dr. Bukar urged the public to learn more about this connection to better prepare for future challenges.
Ambassador Usman Aliyu, Director General of the Borno State Green Wall Agency, warned against the harmful impacts of chemical farming. He pointed out that chemical fertilisers and pesticides damage the environment and human health.
“The use of chemical fertilisers destroys soil fertility and contaminates groundwater,” Ambassador Aliyu said. “This contamination triggers diseases like cancer and gastrointestinal issues. Chemicals also break down the soil structure, escalating environmental problems.”
Both speakers called for increased public awareness and education to prevent the health risks associated with climate change. They encouraged communities to implement strategies to protect health and the environment.
The workshop focused on public campaigns, training programs, and practical solutions to reduce the impact of climate change on health. Participants agreed to share the knowledge gained with their communities to spread awareness.
Health specialists, environmentalists, and government officials exchanged ideas on tackling climate-related health issues in Borno State. The group also discussed how to respond to future challenges, especially in light of recent flooding in the region.
The workshop closed with a strong call to action. Stakeholders are committed to working together on policies that address climate change’s environmental and health impacts. They emphasised the need for early action and preventive measures to reduce long-term health consequences.
The organisers aim to build a healthier, more sustainable future for Borno State through greater awareness and proactive measures. This workshop represents a key step toward addressing the intertwined challenges of climate change and public health.
As Borno State faces climate-induced disasters, officials search for ways to safeguard the population. This workshop marks an important move toward building resilience against the health risks of a changing climate.