Breaking News: 13 Dead, Over 236 Hospitalized in Niger State Cholera Outbreak

By Emmanuel Kwada

A deadly cholera outbreak has swept through six local government areas (LGAs) in Niger State, claiming 13 lives and hospitalizing over 236 residents. The outbreak, first reported on Sunday in Shiroro LGA, has rapidly spread to Bosso, Minna, Magama, Bida, and Munya LGAs, with health officials reporting a surge in cases.

The hardest-hit areas include Chanchaga (Minna), Bosso, and Shiroro, prompting an urgent response from the state government. Dr. Ibrahim Dangana, Commissioner for Primary Healthcare, confirmed the outbreak and outlined measures to curb its spread.

“We have set up treatment and isolation centres in all affected LGAs and are conducting aggressive sensitisation campaigns,” Dangana said. The campaigns target religious groups, including the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Islamic organizations, and the state’s eight emirates.

We have set up treatment and isolation centres in all affected LGAs and are conducting aggressive sensitisation campaigns

To bolster containment efforts, an isolation centre has been established at the old wing of the Late Senator Idris Ibrahim Kuta Primary Healthcare Centre along Old Airport Road in Minna. Dr. Ibrahim Idris, Director of Public Health at the Ministry of Tertiary Healthcare, identified Minna, Bosso, and Shiroro as the outbreak’s epicentres.

Governor Umaru Bago has been commended for his swift intervention, with donor agencies also providing support. Health authorities are closely monitoring the situation, intensifying efforts to prevent further fatalities as the state battles this public health crisis.

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