MINNA, Nigeria – July 24, 2025 — A deadly cholera outbreak has claimed at least 13 lives and hospitalized over 236 people across six local government areas in Niger State, prompting urgent action by the state government. Authorities have swiftly established isolation centres in the hardest-hit communities to curb the spread of the disease.
The cholera outbreak, which was first reported on Sunday, has impacted the local government areas of Chanchaga, Bosso, Shiroro, Magama, Bida, and Munya. Healthcare officials say more than 239 individuals have been infected, with patients receiving treatment at various primary healthcare facilities across the affected zones.
Speaking to reporters on Wednesday, Niger State Commissioner for Primary Healthcare, Dr. Ibrahim Dangana, confirmed the outbreak and outlined the government’s emergency response strategy, including the rapid deployment of treatment and isolation centres in all affected LGAs.
“We have set up treatment and isolation centres to mitigate the epidemic and are also embarking on aggressive sensitisation exercises,” Dangana said.
Niger State Deploys Isolation Centres to Combat Cholera Epidemic in Six
In the state capital Minna, an isolation centre has been established at the old wing of the late Senator Idris Ibrahim Kuta Primary Healthcare Centre along Old Airport Road. The centre will serve as a key facility to manage severe cases and coordinate statewide response efforts.
Dr. Dangana emphasized the need for swift containment of the outbreak, which he described as a “public health emergency.” According to him, the state government has launched a multi-sectoral response, working in collaboration with local authorities, donor agencies, and health experts.
“The campaign now targets religious bodies like the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Islamic organizations, as well as traditional leaders from all eight emirates of the state,” he added.
A healthcare official who spoke to The PUNCH on condition of anonymity said the worst-affected areas are Chanchaga, Bosso, and Shiroro, where many residents rely on contaminated water sources for drinking and sanitation.
“These areas have limited access to clean water, and sanitation infrastructure is weak,” the official explained. “That’s why we are seeing such rapid transmission.”
The official confirmed that dozens of patients had been admitted to local isolation centres, where they are receiving oral rehydration therapy, antibiotics, and intravenous fluids.
Efforts are also underway to disinfect wells, boreholes, and other water sources, especially in rural communities where the majority of infections have been reported.
Dr. Ibrahim Idris, Director of Public Health in the Ministry of Tertiary Healthcare, echoed the concerns, warning that unless aggressive containment measures are maintained, the outbreak could escalate.
“We are urging the public to report any symptoms of cholera such as severe diarrhea, vomiting, and dehydration. Early treatment is essential to saving lives,” he said.
He further stressed the importance of personal hygiene, proper food handling, and access to clean water in halting the disease’s spread.
Governor Mohammed Bago has received praise from local and national health authorities for his prompt response to the crisis. The government’s coordination with donor agencies has provided critical resources, including medical supplies, personnel, and clean water kits.
The cholera epidemic has renewed calls for long-term investments in water and sanitation infrastructure, especially in vulnerable communities throughout Niger State.
“This outbreak is a wake-up call,” said Dr. Dangana. “We need sustainable systems in place so that preventable diseases like cholera do not claim more lives.”
Cholera is a highly contagious waterborne disease caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholerae, typically contracted by consuming contaminated water or food. Symptoms can include severe diarrhea, vomiting, dehydration, and can be fatal if left untreated.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cholera can kill within hours if not properly managed, but it is easily preventable with clean water, hygiene education, and vaccination campaigns.
As of Thursday, health officials are continuing door-to-door awareness campaigns and community-level disinfection. Mobile teams have been deployed to remote villages to monitor symptoms and refer serious cases to nearby isolation centres.
The state has also launched radio jingles and public announcements in local languages to inform citizens about symptoms and prevention strategies.
“The isolation centres are not just treatment zones,” said a local nurse in Bida. “They are lifelines for people who would otherwise not survive.”
Niger State’s Public Health Emergency Response Team remains on high alert, working round-the-clock to assess new cases and prevent further fatalities.
With the rainy season underway and the risk of water contamination high, public health officials are urging citizens to remain vigilant and seek care at the nearest isolation centre if symptoms appear.
Source- Punchng
