The Oyo State Government has issued an urgent Environmental health advisory following a severe heat stress alert from the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet), warning residents to take immediate precautions as temperatures soar to dangerous levels.
According to the Commissioner of the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources, Hon. Ademola Aderinto, the ongoing heatwave is not isolated to Oyo State but is part of a nationwide surge in temperatures affecting several states across Nigeria.
He added that with daytime temperatures reaching as high as 41°C, there is a heightened risk of heat exhaustion, dehydration, and heatstroke, particularly during this peak dry season.
Aderinto emphasised the need for residents to remain vigilant and adopt practical safety measures to protect their health and well-being.
He urged residents to limit outdoor activities, especially between 12:00 PM and 4:00 PM when the sun is at its peak. For those who must be outdoors, staying under shade, particularly natural tree cover, was strongly recommended as an effective way to reduce heat exposure.
The Commissioner stressed that proper hydration remains critical even when they don’t feel thirsty, urging residents to drink at least two to three litres of water daily and consume water-rich foods such as fruits and vegetables to help regulate body temperature.
He further encouraged the use of light, breathable clothing and protective items such as hats, umbrellas, and sunglasses. Ensuring proper ventilation in homes and workplaces, he added, is essential to reduce indoor heat buildup.
Aderinto also issued a strong warning against leaving children, elderly people, or pets inside parked vehicles, noting that temperatures inside vehicles can rise rapidly to fatal levels within minutes.
Residents are encouraged to watch for early signs of heat stress, including dizziness, fatigue, convulsions, and nausea, and to check on vulnerable neighbours who may require assistance.
Beyond immediate safety measures, the Commissioner highlighted the broader environmental implications of the heatwave, urging citizens to protect existing green spaces and actively participate in tree-planting initiatives to mitigate long-term heat effects.
He reassured the public of the government’s continued commitment to safeguarding lives and property and pledged to provide timely updates as weather conditions evolve.
