By ITUA E O.D
At SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja, and our sister branch in Ikoyi, we understand how much seasonal changes can impact your eye health.
Nigeria’s climate—diverse and regionally varied—features two main seasons: the rainy season and the dry season, with unique phenomena like harmattan in the north. From thick dust storms in Sokoto to UV-heavy days in Lagos, each shift in the season can affect your eyes in ways you may not expect.
This article explores Nigeria’s seasonal variations across its six geopolitical zones and provides practical eye care tips tailored for each season and region—so your eyes stay protected year-round.
Understanding Nigeria’s Seasonal Changes
-
Rainy Season (April – October)
High humidity, heavy rain
Risks: Conjunctivitis (“Apollo”), fungal infections, allergies
-
Dry Season (November – March)
Harmattan: dry air, dust storms, intense sun
Risks: Dry eyes, photokeratitis (UV burn), irritation from foreign bodies
Eye Care Across Nigeria’s Geopolitical Zones
🌍 North West
States: Sokoto, Kano, Kaduna, Katsina, Kebbi, Jigawa, Zamfara
Climate & Challenges:
- Harmattan brings thick dust and dry air
- Sunlight exposure raises the risk of cataracts
Eye Care Tips:
✔ Harmattan:
- Use wraparound sunglasses
- Apply lubricating eye drops
- Stay hydrated
✔ Rainy Season:
- Wash hands frequently to prevent infections
- Avoid touching eyes after contact with floodwater
🌍 North East
States: Borno, Yobe, Adamawa, Bauchi, Gombe, Taraba
Climate & Challenges:
- Very dry harmattan season
- Glare and excessive sun exposure are common
Eye Care Tips:
✔ Harmattan:
- Use artificial tears
- Avoid rubbing eyes
✔ Rainy Season:
- Rinse eyes with clean water after irritant exposure
- Don’t share towels to avoid infection
🌍 North Central
States: Benue, Kogi, Kwara, Nasarawa, Niger, Plateau, FCT
Climate & Challenges:
- Moderate rain, occasional flooding
- Allergens and fungal infections during harmattan
Eye Care Tips:
✔ Harmattan:
- Wear protective eyewear
- Consider omega-3 supplements for tear production
✔ Rainy Season:
- Use antifungal drops (as prescribed)
- Keep surroundings dry to limit mold exposure
🌍 South West
States: Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Osun, Ondo, Ekiti
Climate & Challenges:
- Flooding during rains
- Sun glare and occasional harmattan
Eye Care Tips:
✔ Rainy Season:
- Keep hands clean before touching eyes
- Use preservative-free eye drops for irritation
✔ Dry Season:
- Wear UV-blocking sunglasses
- Limit screen time—use the 20-20-20 rule
🌍 South East
States: Abia, Anambra, Ebonyi, Enugu, Imo
Climate & Challenges:
- Risk of river blindness in flood-prone areas
- Common allergic conjunctivitis
Eye Care Tips:
✔ Rainy Season:
- Sleep under mosquito nets
- Seek care for persistent redness or irritation
✔ Dry Season:
- Use antihistamine drops
- Keep eyes moist with artificial tears
🌍 South South
States: Akwa Ibom, Bayelsa, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Rivers
Climate & Challenges:
- Long rainy season
- Saltwater irritation near coasts
Eye Care Tips
✔ Rainy Season:
- Avoid contaminated water
- Keep eyes dry to prevent fungal issues
✔ Dry Season:
- Wear polarized sunglasses
- Rinse eyes if exposed to saltwater
Conclusion
No matter where you are in Nigeria, seasonal shifts can challenge your eye health. From dusty harmattan air in the north to fungal risks in the humid south, simple preventive steps can make a big difference.
✅ Wear the right eyewear
✅ Stay hydrated
✅ Practice good hygiene
✅ Get regular check-ups
Whether you're dealing with harmattan haze or coastal humidity, the team at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja is here to guide you with expert care and tailored eye health solutions.
Book your eye exam today at SpecSMART Eye Clinic Ikeja or visit our Ikoyi branch to keep your vision clear through every season.
Because clear vision means a better quality of life.