Climate Impact in South-west Nigeria
Increased flooding and coastal erosion, particularly in Lagos and the surrounding coastal areas, are two significant effects of climate change on communities in southwest Nigeria. Rainfall patterns have become more intense and erratic as a result of climate change, resulting in heavier downpours that overwhelm drainage systems. As a result, urban flooding frequently occurs in many communities, causing damage to businesses, homes, and roads as well as interfering with daily operations.
Furthermore, the Atlantic coastline is experiencing significant coastal erosion due to rising sea levels. The ocean is progressively encroaching on land in areas like Lekki and other low-lying coastal settlements, eroding homes, farms, and beaches. Due to the dangers in their communities, some families have been compelled to move.
These effects put already overburdened infrastructure under strain, endanger livelihoods, and raise the risk of waterborne illnesses following floods. For communities in southwest Nigeria, the situation demonstrates how climate change is now a real and persistent challenge rather than a far-off issue.
By building climate-resilient infrastructure, especially in urban centers like Lagos, Ibadan, Abeokuta, and Akure, to handle heavier rainfall, we will reduce vulnerability and build long-term resilience.