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

Author

Listed:
  • 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
    University of Nairobi
    Holo Global Health Research Institute
    Health Data Acumen)

  • Olayemi Akinnola

    (Covenant University)

  • Alexander Iseolorunkanmi

    (Covenant University Medical Centre, Covenant University)

  • Davies Adeloye

    (Teesside University)

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.

Suggested Citation

  • Faatihah Niyi-Odumosu & Obianuju B. Ozoh & Victor Oloruntoba Ope & Boni M. Ale & Olayemi Akinnola & Alexander Iseolorunkanmi & Davies Adeloye, 2025. "Exploring the impact of climate change on respiratory health in Nigeria: a scoping review of current research, government policies and programs," Climatic Change, Springer, vol. 178(3), pages 1-24, March.
    • Handle: RePEc:spr:climat:v:178:y:2025:i:3:d:10.1007_s10584-025-03880-0
    DOI: 10.1007/s10584-025-03880-0
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Samuel Kwasi Opoku & Walter Leal Filho & Fudjumdjum Hubert & Oluwabunmi Adejumo, 2021. "Climate Change and Health Preparedness in Africa: Analysing Trends in Six African Countries," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 18(9), pages 1-29, April.
    2. Fekete, Hanna & Kuramochi, Takeshi & Roelfsema, Mark & Elzen, Michel den & Forsell, Nicklas & Höhne, Niklas & Luna, Lisa & Hans, Frederic & Sterl, Sebastian & Olivier, Jos & van Soest, Heleen & Frank,, 2021. "A review of successful climate change mitigation policies in major emitting economies and the potential of global replication," Renewable and Sustainable Energy Reviews, Elsevier, vol. 137(C).
    3. Olusola Joshua Olujobi, 2020. "RETRACTED: Analysis of the Legal Framework Governing Gas Flaring in Nigeria’s Upstream Petroleum Sector and the Need for Overhauling," Social Sciences, MDPI, vol. 9(8), pages 1-19, July.
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