IMPACT OF CLIMATE CHANGE ON HUMAN HEALTH IN NJIMTILO AREA OF KONDUGA LOCAL GOVERNMENT, BORNO STATE

This study investigated the impact of climate change on human health in the Njimtilo area of Kunduga Local Government, Borno State. The increasing frequency of extreme weather events and climatic variability in the Sahel region poses significant threats to public health, particularly in vulnerable rural communities like Njimtilo. The study aimed to assess the perceived changes in local climate, identify the major climate-sensitive health issues prevalent in the area, and examine the adaptation strategies employed by the community. A mixed-methods research design was adopted, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. Primary data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 150 randomly selected household heads and key informant interviews with community health workers and elders. Secondary data were also obtained from relevant sources. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency counts and percentages) and thematic analysis. The findings revealed a strong consensus among respondents (over 90%) on noticeable climate changes, primarily increased temperature, erratic rainfall patterns, and prolonged dry spells. These changes were linked to a high prevalence of health issues, including increased cases of malaria, respiratory infections from dust, and water-borne diseases like diarrhea and cholera. While the community adopts local adaptation strategies such as increased water storage and use of mosquito nets, these measures are often insufficient. The study concludes that climate change significantly exacerbates health vulnerabilities in Njimtilo. It recommends enhanced public health education on climate-related diseases, government intervention in improving water, sanitation, and healthcare infrastructure, and the integration of climate adaptation policies into local development plans.