In Ilorin, the hot capital of Kwara State, Nigeria, people are showing remarkable strength while fasting during this extreme heat.
Take Hassan Adamu, a 46-year-old labourer. Despite being in the middle of Ramadan, he was spotted buying cold water—not to drink, but to splash over his head to cool down in the scorching sun. “The weather is really hot and dry. I can’t drink during fasting, so I needed something to help me feel better at work,” he said. Like many others, he works hard to provide for his family, even when the heat is unbearable.
Recently, temperatures in Ilorin have soared between 35°C and 42°C, raising concerns about heatstroke for those adhering to Ramadan and Lent. The clash between faith and environmental conditions unveils stories of survival and adaptation. Victor Adeoti, another labourer, shared that their work hours were changed to beat the heat. “We start at 6:30 a.m. and finish by 1 p.m. to avoid issues,” he explained, recalling a worrisome incident where a co-worker nearly collapsed from dehydration.
But not everyone has the luxury of adjusted schedules. Zakariyah Usman, who lays interlocks on roads, must endure the heat until 5 p.m., taking only brief breaks. He persists out of financial need, even as the heat wears him down.
Street vendor Aminat Salako has adjusted her routine, carrying heavy goods before dawn and seeking shade during the day. Yet, dehydration still pushes her limits. Civil servant Hajia Memunat Alabi rescheduled her leave to March to better manage the heat. “In the first week of Ramadan, I felt uncomfortable as soon as it hit 1 p.m. Staying home on weekends helped,” she shared.
The impacts of rising temperatures extend beyond discomfort. In 2024, heat-related illnesses in Nigeria rose by 30%, resulting in over 2,000 deaths, as reported by AP News. Farmers also suffered, with crop yields dropping by 20%. Recent statistics show that yam farmers in Abuja faced a staggering 65% loss due to heat, according to Daily Post. Electricity usage surged by 30%, leading to more blackouts (AllAfrica).
In response, the Kwara government is taking action. Environment Commissioner Nafisat Buge urged residents to limit outdoor activities during peak heat, wear breathable clothing, and stay hydrated. The state is also working with partners to prepare healthcare services for heat-related emergencies.
Heatwaves have become a common issue across North Central Nigeria. The World Meteorological Organization warns that these extreme weather patterns are expected to worsen with climate change. Dr. Aisha Oyerinde-Jimoh, a medical professional, sounds the alarm on heatstroke, stressing that body temperatures over 40°C can lead to severe health risks. She advises fasting individuals to drink at least two liters of water when not fasting, eat water-rich foods, and avoid sugary drinks.
To tackle these heat challenges, climate expert Olumide Idowu points to human actions contributing to climate change, such as burning fossil fuels and deforestation. “These activities release greenhouse gases that trap heat, causing global warming and extreme weather,” he said. He advocates for urban green spaces, better drainage systems, and a switch to renewable energy sources. Increasing public awareness about climate risks is crucial, he believes, to help communities adapt.
In a world facing rising temperatures and shifting climates, the resilience of people like Hassan, Victor, and Zakariyah shines through their daily struggles. As both climate change and health risks intensify, their stories remind us of the pressing need for collective action and awareness.
Check out this related article: Unpacking Climate Colonialism: How It’s Impacting Pakistan’s Future
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