Niger State in North-Central Nigeria is currently grappling with a serious cholera outbreak that has claimed the lives of at least 13 people and affected nearly 300 others across six local government areas (LGAs). The affected councils include Shiroro, Minna (Chanchaga), Bosso, Magama, Bida, and Munya, with Chanchaga, Bosso, and Shiroro being the hardest hit.
According to the Niger State Commissioner for Primary Health Care, Dr. Ibrahim Dangana, about 297 suspected cases have been reported with 13 deaths, many of them children, and 13 persons are currently isolated and receiving treatment at designated isolation centers, including one set up at the old wing of Senator Idris Ibrahim Kuta Primary Health Care Centre in Minna. Most of the cholera victims are children who represent a significant proportion of the suspected cases.
The outbreak first emerged around two weeks ago in Shiroro LGA and has since spread to surrounding areas. Preliminary investigations suggest that the outbreak may have been partly caused by the consumption of contaminated rainwater, highlighting the urgent need for access to safe drinking water.
The state government, with support from donor agencies including UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO), has activated a multi-sectoral emergency response team to contain the outbreak. Aggressive sensitization campaigns are ongoing, targeting religious organizations such as the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Islamic groups, as well as the emirates in the state, to promote hygiene education and prevent further spread.
The Commissioner emphasized that treatment and isolation centers have been established across affected LGAs to manage patients, and free medical care is being provided to those affected. The state has also procured large quantities of antibiotics and other medications to support victims.
Dr. Ibrahim Idris, Director of Public Health at the Ministry of Tertiary Health, confirmed the downward trend in new infections but cautioned that continued vigilance is essential.
This outbreak underscores ongoing public health challenges in the region related to water sanitation and infrastructure, with officials calling on the public to consume only clean water, practice good hygiene, and avoid eating contaminated food to prevent further transmission.
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