As students prepare to return to Obafemi Awolowo University (OAU), Ile-Ife, for a new session, the heat experienced across parts of the country raises questions about what the changing climate could mean for students, particularly those coming to campus for the first time.
The discomfort of walking under intense sunshine, attending lectures in poorly ventilated classrooms, and staying in overcrowded hostels has become a concern among some students. But beyond these experiences is a wider climate phenomenon known as El Niño.
Understanding the El Niño Phenomenon:
El Niño is a natural climate pattern characterised by unusually warm sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern tropical Pacific Ocean. It influences atmospheric circulation and can alter temperature and rainfall patterns in different parts of the world.
In August 2026, the Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) confirmed the onset of a strong El Niño event, while the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), in its October update, projected further strengthening towards December.
The WMO also warned that the event could influence global temperature and rainfall patterns, with above-average temperatures expected across many land areas.
However, El Niño does not affect every region in the same way. Local effects depend on geography, season, and other climate factors. Therefore, the heat experienced in Ile-Ife cannot be attributed to El Niño alone.
What does this mean for Ile-Ife?
Research at Obafemi Awolowo University, published in the Ife Journal of Agriculture in 2025, examined weather fluctuations on the university campus between 2011 and 2022. The study recorded maximum air temperatures ranging from 32°C to 33°C during the period and established a positive relationship between air temperature and solar radiation.
Another study published in September 2026 on urban heat patterns in Ile-Ife found that built-up surfaces were warmer than vegetated areas, suggesting that urban development and vegetation loss may contribute to local heat conditions.
These findings provide useful context for understanding the environment students are returning to, although they do not establish that El Niño is responsible for the current campus heat.
Prolonged Exposure to Excessive Heat Can Cause Dehydration – Dr. Sunday Osuntoye.
Speaking on the health implications, a Medical Doctor, Dr. Sunday Osuntoye, explained that prolonged exposure to excessive heat can cause dehydration as the body loses water through sweating. He identified symptoms such as dry mouth, excessive thirst, dizziness, weakness, and difficulty concentrating.
He also warned that severe cases can progress from heat syncope and heat exhaustion to potentially life-threatening heatstroke. He further explained that excessive heat can disrupt sleep and worsen existing heart and kidney conditions.
On what freshers and returning students should know, he said, ‘For freshers, adjusting to university life may involve walking long distances between lecture venues, attending outdoor activities and settling into hostel accommodation. These activities can increase exposure to intense sunshine and uncomfortable temperatures. However, my advice is that students should drink water regularly rather than wait until they become thirsty.’
He also recommended carrying water bottles, wearing light clothing, using umbrellas or hats, and avoiding prolonged exposure to direct sunlight. Students should also ensure adequate room ventilation and look out for one another, particularly when someone experiences dizziness, weakness, or other symptoms of heat-related illness. Confusion or loss of consciousness requires urgent medical attention.
‘While personal precautions are important, students also need a supportive environment. Better ventilation, regular building maintenance, and adequate cooling systems in lecture theatres and hostels are necessary considerations for the university.’
Discover more from ACJOAU
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.