13 Dead, 236 Hospitalised As Cholera Outbreak In Niger Raises Concerns Over Nationwide Spread

A cholera outbreak in Niger State has raised serious concerns over a potential nationwide health crisis, following its rapid spread across six local government areas and the death of 13 residents.

Over 236 others have been hospitalised as cases continue to increase.

Initially detected in Shiroro LGA on Sunday, the outbreak has since reached Bosso, Minna, Magama, Bida, and Munya, with Chanchaga (Minna), Bosso, and Shiroro reported as the hardest-hit zones.

Health authourities warn that if containment efforts falter, the disease could spill beyond state borders, escalating into a broader emergency.

The state government has launched a coordinated response, deploying treatment and isolation centres in each affected area. Commissioner for Primary Healthcare, Dr. Ibrahim Dangana, confirmed that a multi-sectoral strategy is underway, paired with intensive public sensitization to curb the spread.

“Our goal is to contain this outbreak before it snowballs into a larger epidemic,” Dangana stated.

“The awareness drive is targeting religious bodies such as the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Islamic groups, and the eight emirates in the state,” he added.

To reinforce the containment effort, the state government has opened an isolation centre at the old wing of the Late Senator Idris Ibrahim Kuta Primary Healthcare Centre along Old Airport Road in Minna.

Dangana also commended Governor Umaru Bago for his swift intervention and appreciated the support of donor agencies assisting the state.

Corroborating the commissioner’s statement, the Director of Public Health in the Ministry of Tertiary Healthcare, Dr. Ibrahim Idris, confirmed that Minna, Bosso, and Shiroro remained the epicentres of the outbreak.

It was, however, learnt that health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely as efforts intensify to prevent further loss of lives.