Nigeria sweats in heatwave as Iran war drives up costs to stay cool

Rising fuel pricesNigeria’s unique economic situation as Africa’s fourth-largest economy, but with a dilapidated power grid much less stable than some of its poorer neighbours, has led to the widespread use of private generators, at least among those who can afford them.That number may be dwindling as fuel prices soar due to the Iran war.”I no longer use it because of the hike in price,” Emmanuel Chinonso, 40, a ride-share driver in Abuja, told AFP.When the grid goes out on a sweltering night, so does his fan, he said.Like elsewhere in the country, gasoline prices have nearly doubled in the capital, from around 850 naira per litre to more than 1,300 — a record high in a country where petrol sold for around 195 naira at the start of 2023. Many drivers, like Chinonso, keep their car air conditioning off to conserve fuel — and “plead” for a tip from customers in return for switching it on.”If you explain to them, some of them are very understanding and kind,” he said.Health warningsDespite humid air thick with dust and vehicle fumes, and engines idling as vehicles waited for passengers on a recent Wednesday, thousands of Lagos traders continued to display their goods under direct sunlight, despite warnings against prolonged exposure. Hawkers balancing basins of iced fizzy drinks moved through traffic, offering quick relief to commuters.With the cost of living on the rise following years of high inflation, many traders exposed to the sun and polluted air are more concerned about putting food on the table than air quality. “The weather is not good,” Aminat Jimoh told AFP as he fried tofu by a cluttered roadside. “But we have to endure because we cannot eat if we don’t come here.”The heatwave could also worsen Nigeria’s malaria burden. According to the World Health Organization, climate change — through increased rainfall, temperatures and humidity — can in some cases accelerate malaria transmission by enabling mosquitoes to breed faster.Nigeria recorded about a quarter of the world’s malaria cases and 30 percent of global deaths in 2024, according to the WHO.The approaching rainy season offers some relief as storms tamp down temperatures.But it will also bring its own challenges, such as flooding.”I know that rain has its own problem but I can’t wait for this heat to go,” Akanni said. Go to Source