Panic in Niger as Cholera Kills 13, Overwhelms Hospitals

A cholera outbreak in Niger State has claimed at least 13 lives and left over 230 others hospitalised across six local government areas. According to updates obtained by iReporter Online, the outbreak, which began on Sunday, has rapidly spread across several communities, with Shiroro, Chanchaga, Bosso, Magama, Bida, and Munya councils identified as the most affected.

Healthcare officials, speaking under condition of anonymity, confirmed that a total of 239 individuals are currently receiving treatment in various primary healthcare centres. Local authorities have expressed concern about the severity and pace of the outbreak.

Responding to the emergency, the Niger State government has established a treatment and isolation centre at the old wing of the late Senator Idris Ibrahim Kuta Primary Healthcare Centre, located along Old Airport Road in Minna. Commissioner for Primary Healthcare, Ibrahim Dangana, confirmed the government’s multi-sectoral intervention strategy aimed at containing the spread of the disease across the six councils.

Dangana stated that treatment centres have also been activated within each affected local government area, while aggressive awareness campaigns are underway. Religious groups, including Christian and Islamic organisations, as well as the eight emirates within the state, are being engaged as part of a wider sensitisation effort.

The commissioner acknowledged the proactive role played by Governor Mohammed Bago and praised development partners and donor agencies for their swift assistance during the health emergency. Supporting the commissioner’s remarks, Director of Public Health, Ibrahim Idris, reiterated that the worst-hit areas are Chanchaga, Bosso, and Shiroro.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and urge residents to remain vigilant, maintain hygiene, and report any symptoms of illness to health officials immediately.