…Calls for Strengthened National Response

…Plans Deployment of 70,000 Environmental Surveillance Officers

By Emmanuel Elebeke

The Environmental Health Council of Nigeria (EHCON) has expressed concern over the increasing impact of greenhouse gas emissions on environmental and public health, calling for stronger and more coordinated action to address air pollution across the country.

Speaking on the issue, the Executive Secretary and Chief Executive Officer of EHCON, Sanitarian Yakubu Mohammed Baba, noted that air pollution remains a significant environmental health challenge, largely linked to fossil fuel use, industrial activities, and vehicular emissions in urban and industrial areas.

According to him, exposure to polluted air has been associated with a rise in respiratory ailments, cardiovascular conditions, and other pollution-related health concerns, which continue to place pressure on the nation’s healthcare system.

He further explained that greenhouse gas emissions also contribute to broader environmental challenges, including climate variability, increased heat levels, flooding, and other climate-related risks that affect communities and infrastructure.

EHCON cautioned that inadequate regulation and enforcement of environmental standards could hinder sustainable development and increase long-term health and economic costs.

In response, the Council is advocating enhanced national attention to air quality management and environmental health, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts involving federal, state, and local governments.

As part of its proposed strategy, EHCON outlined plans to strengthen regulatory enforcement through routine inspections, certification processes, and appropriate sanctions for operators found to be in violation of existing environmental regulations.

The Council also highlighted the need to promote emission-reduction measures, including regular emission testing, improved fuel quality, and the adoption of cleaner industrial and transportation practices.

Public awareness, EHCON said, remains a critical component of the initiative. The Council plans to embark on nationwide sensitization campaigns to educate citizens on the health and environmental effects of air pollution and encourage environmentally responsible practices.

EHCON stressed the importance of inter-governmental collaboration, noting that effective implementation, monitoring, and enforcement of environmental health policies require sustained cooperation across all levels of government.

To assess progress, the Council said it would rely on periodic environmental assessments, compliance monitoring, and analysis of available health data to guide policy decisions.

While implementation timelines are still under review, EHCON emphasized the importance of timely action to safeguard public health and protect the environment.

The Council also urged Nigerians to support efforts aimed at improving air quality by maintaining vehicles properly, adopting cleaner energy options where feasible, and complying with environmental regulations, noting that collective action is essential to achieving lasting results.