A cholera outbreak has claimed no fewer than 12 lives and left at least 236 others hospitalised across multiple local government areas in Niger State, prompting swift emergency response measures from the state government.
It was revealed that the outbreak, which was first reported on Sunday in Shiroro Local Government Area, has since spread to other parts of the state. As of Wednesday, the deadly waterborne disease had affected no fewer than six local government areas, including Chanchaga (Minna), Bosso, Shiroro, Magama, New Bussa, and Munya.
A medical source, who requested anonymity, confirmed that over 239 people had been infected and were currently receiving medical care at various primary healthcare centres within the affected communities.
In response to the crisis, the Niger State Government has opened an isolation and treatment facility at the old wing of the Late Senator Idris Ibrahim Kuta Primary Healthcare Centre along Old Airport Road in Minna.
The State Commissioner for Primary Healthcare, Dr Ibrahim Ahmed Dangana, confirmed the development, stating that the government had adopted a multi-sectoral approach to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread.
“We have set up treatment and isolation centres in each of the affected local government areas to mitigate the outbreak,” Dr Dangana said. “In addition, we have launched aggressive sensitisation campaigns targeting religious bodies such as the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Islamic organisations, and the eight emirates in the state.”
Dr Dangana also commended Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago for his swift intervention and praised donor agencies for their timely support in providing critical resources to combat the outbreak.
Also speaking, the Director of Public Health at the Ministry of Tertiary Health Care, Dr Ibrahim Idris, corroborated the Commissioner’s position, noting that Chanchaga, Bosso, and Shiroro are the worst-hit areas.
Health authorities have urged residents in affected communities to observe strict hygiene practices, avoid consumption of untreated water, and report any suspected cases to the nearest health facility.
The cholera outbreak has raised concerns over the state’s public health preparedness and infrastructure, especially in rural areas with limited access to clean water and sanitation. Efforts to contain the outbreak continue, as health officials intensify community outreach and preventive measures across the state.
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