Active Lives in Hot Spots: Uncovering and Tackling Activity-Related Heat Exposure and Associated Health Risks at Transit Hubs in Lagos

Transit hubs in Lagos are convergence points for heat-vulnerable groups, notably active travellers and recreational movers, and are also a magnet for outdoor vendors due to high foot traffic. These populations face increasing health risks from extreme heat in a city where over 70% of residents live in extreme poverty. Yet, they are also key partners in making heat-related risks visible and co-creating solutions. Lagos State policies—including the 2018 Non-Motorised Transport (NMT) policy and draft health-climate adaptation plans—acknowledge climate hazards but largely overlook extreme heat and the opportunity for intersectoral collaboration to advance climate and health goals. The NMT Policy identifies the short-term need for demonstration infrastructure projects but evidence on heat-health risks and protective strategies remains limited. This requires data on why action is urgent (heat-health risks), who is most affected (and how they navigate heat), and how health can be protected through transport infrastructure responses. This study will fill these gaps; synthesising evidence and generating data on links between heat exposure, health and the built environment. Through co-created communications and engagement strategies, the project will raise awareness, inform infrastructure interventions and catalyse action on heat-related health risks—leveraging NMT policy momentum to protect heat-vulnerable populations in Africa’s largest city.