Minna, Niger State – A devastating cholera outbreak has swept through Niger State, claiming the lives of 13 people and leaving 130 others hospitalized across 16 local government areas. As of now, health officials have confirmed 253 cases, prompting urgent intervention from state authorities.
The outbreak has hit a significant portion of the state, with the worst-affected areas identified as Chanchaga, Bosso, Munya, Shiroro, Magama, and Bida local government areas. A detailed breakdown of reported cases shows Chanchaga and Bosso LGAs bearing the highest burden, with 67 and 68 cases respectively. Shiroro follows closely with 58 cases, while Bida, Magama, and Munya each account for 20 confirmed infections.
Investigations by health authorities strongly suggest that the widespread infections were primarily triggered by the consumption of contaminated rainwater.
Confirming the grim situation, Dr. Ibrahim Ahmed Dangana, the Commissioner for Primary Health in Niger State, announced that immediate measures have been activated to manage the crisis. “The government has already designated the Idris Kuta Primary Health Care Centre in Minna, the state capital, for the treatment of those affected in Chanchaga local government,” Dr. Dangana stated. “The same facilities in other local governments are being used to attend to those affected there.”
He further added that crucial support has been mobilized from key partners and institutions to contain the crisis. “Similarly, all the donor agencies in the state, including the World Health Organisation (WHO), as well as the Niger State Emergency Management Agency (NSEMA) and the State Water Board, have been mobilized to assist in combating the spread of the outbreak,” the Commissioner explained.
To ensure adequate treatment for victims, Dr. Dangana confirmed that “The state government has also procured huge quantities of drugs among them antibiotics for the treatment of the victims.” He then issued a public appeal, urging residents to “ensure that they consume only hygienic water, fruits, and food.”
Adding to the government’s efforts, Dr. Ibrahim Idris, Director of Public Health in the Ministry of Tertiary Health, confirmed the deployment of surveillance staff to all affected areas to monitor and contain the disease’s progression. He offered a ray of hope regarding the ongoing response, stating, “Those admitted in the various hospitals across the state are being treated free of charge, and the graph of the outbreak has been on a downward trend.”
As the state battles the deadly disease, public health officials continue to stress the importance of preventive measures. Residents are strongly advised to boil or treat water before drinking, and to avoid eating unwashed fruits or improperly cooked food to curb further transmission and protect their health.
