Mould proliferating in residential buildings across Nigeria, particularly in densely populated cities such as [Lagos](https://lagosstate.gov.ng), poses a serious yet overlooked public‑health challenge, aggravating respiratory ailments, triggering asthma attacks and, in severe cases, causing lung infections.
**Why is mould a health concern?**
- The World Health Organization estimates that occupants of damp or mould‑infested dwellings face up to a 75% higher likelihood of respiratory symptoms and asthma.
- Common symptoms include persistent coughing, wheezing, nasal congestion, itchy eyes and skin rashes, which doctors often treat without linking them to indoor dampness.
- Children are especially at risk because their lungs are still developing, and early exposure to mould‑laden environments has been associated with later‑life asthma.
- Individuals with weakened immune systems may suffer genuine lung infections from certain mould species.
**How does Nigeria’s climate fuel the problem?**
- Much of West, Central and East Africa experiences high humidity and prolonged rainy seasons, creating ideal conditions for mould growth.
- In Lagos, annual rainfall averages between 1,600 and 1,800 mm, often arriving in intense bursts that overwhelm drainage systems and allow water to infiltrate roofs and walls.
- Cities such as Port Harcourt and Calabar maintain high humidity levels even outside the rainy season, further encouraging fungal colonies.
**What role do households play?**
- While climate sets the stage, daily habits determine whether mould takes hold. Promptly repairing leaks, avoiding indoor drying of clothes, and ensuring regular ventilation are critical actions.
- Opening windows, using extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms, and wiping down wet surfaces can dramatically reduce moisture buildup.
- When mould does appear, thorough cleaning is essential, but the underlying moisture source must be eliminated; otherwise, the problem will recur.
**What can tenants and landlords do?**
- Tenants should document leaks in writing, keep records, and follow up with landlords rather than waiting for the issue to resolve itself.
- Landlords need to address structural problems like faulty roofs and inadequate damp‑proofing promptly.
- Stronger building codes are needed, but households cannot wait for policy changes to protect their health during the rainy season.
**Economic implications**
- Beyond health, mould damages building materials, furniture, clothing and books, imposing financial strain on families already coping with tight budgets.
- Businesses and schools also suffer losses when stock or educational resources become mould‑contaminated.
**Expert advice**
> "Most mould problems stay small if someone takes ownership early," says > health communication specialist Sylvester Ojenagbon. "Fix leaks as soon as > they appear, keep rooms well‑ventilated, and treat any visible growth > promptly."
**What steps should households prioritize?**
- Repair any water intrusion immediately.
- Increase airflow by opening windows or using fans.
- Install or use extractor fans in high‑moisture areas.
- Avoid drying laundry indoors.
- Clean existing mould thoroughly and address the moisture source.
The evidence linking indoor dampness to respiratory illness has accumulated over decades, and the solution does not require new science—only a shift in household attitudes toward proactive maintenance and early intervention.
*Sylvester Ojenagbon, a health communication expert and certified management trainer, resides in Lagos.*