By Esther Ososanya
A deadly cholera outbreak in Niger State has killed 13 people, mostly children, and infected at least 297 across six local government areas.
The outbreak, which began two weeks ago in Minna and Shiroro, has spread to Bosso, Magama, Bida, and Munya.
State officials say emergency health measures are in place to contain the disease and prevent further deaths.
UNICEF Flags High Rate of Child Deaths
During a field visit to the isolation centre at Senator Idris Ibrahim Kuta Primary Health Care Centre in Minna, UNICEF officials pledged to support the state’s response.
Dr Gerida Birukila, Chief of the UNICEF Kaduna Field Office, said most of the victims are children. “Unfortunately, we lost 13 persons, mostly children,” she said. “They also make up most of the 297 suspected cases.”
She explained that UNICEF is working to upgrade the isolation centre to manage the rising number of patients.
More Cases Emerge in Isolation Centres
Currently, 13 people are being treated at isolation centres. Seven are in Minna, while four new cases were admitted on Thursday. Another 23 suspected cases are being monitored in other local councils. Some of them have tested positive.
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UNICEF Health Specialist Dr. Sule Mele said over 200 suspected cases have been recorded so far. Of those tested, 50 per cent returned positive results using rapid diagnostic tools.
He warned that the number of infections could rise due to poor sanitary conditions in many communities.
UNICEF, he added, has increased its efforts in awareness campaigns and case tracking.
Government Ramps Up Public Health Response
Dr Ibrahim Dangana, the State Commissioner for Primary Health Care, confirmed the outbreak and called for urgent public cooperation.
He urged residents to drink clean water, maintain personal hygiene, and visit health centres at the first sign of symptoms such as diarrhoea or vomiting.
Cholera, a waterborne disease, spreads quickly through contaminated food or water, especially during the rainy season. Public health experts say poor sanitation and overcrowding increase the risk of widespread transmission.
They are urging continuous containment, improved hygiene, and access to clean water to stop the disease from spreading further.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
