Nigeria struggles to cool itself as temperatures rise and electricity remains scarce

As Nigeria faces increasing temperatures due to climate change, millions lack access to basic cooling, creating health risks and deepening the country’s energy crisis.

Nell Gallogly reports for The New York Times.

In short:

• Temperatures in Lagos regularly exceed 95°F, but many Nigerians can't afford air-conditioning or face frequent blackouts.
• Nigeria's outdated, inefficient cooling technologies rely heavily on fossil fuels, worsening climate impacts while straining the power grid.
• Solar-powered solutions, like cold storage for farmers, offer some hope but wider energy reforms are needed to meet rising demand.

Key quote:

“Air-conditioners are a necessity — no longer a luxury.”

— Okon Ekpenyong, former director, Energy Commission of Nigeria

Why this matters:

With Nigeria’s population projected to surge, the country’s lack of reliable cooling could lead to widespread health crises. Access to energy-efficient, sustainable cooling solutions is critical to adapting to climate change while avoiding further environmental harm.

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