The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has issued a public health alert over the rising threat of a cholera outbreak, prompted by anticipated widespread flooding across the country.
The warning comes in the wake of the Federal Government’s 2025 Annual Flood Outlook, which forecasts severe flooding in 30 states, including the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). The report identifies over 1,200 communities in 176 local government areas as being at high risk, while an additional 2,187 communities in 293 LGAs are classified as moderately vulnerable to flooding.
During a recent press conference on the nation’s public health security, the NCDC Director General, Dr Jide Idris, addressed the country’s current battle against cholera, Lassa fever, meningitis, and Mpox. He remarked, “Cholera remains endemic in Nigeria, particularly in communities with limited access to clean water and sanitation.”
He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to leading a nationally coordinated response, working in collaboration with state governments and international partners to ensure rapid support and regular public updates on disease outbreaks.
Dr Idris noted that while cholera poses an increasing concern due to the flood risk, there has been a noticeable reduction in Lassa fever cases. Confirmed cases have dropped from 41 to 10 by epidemiological week 17, ending on 27 April 2025, with fatalities limited to three within that period.
He also provided data on Mpox, saying that between week 1 and week 16 of 2025, 723 suspected cases were reported across 35 states and the FCT. Out of these, 136 were confirmed through laboratory testing, spanning 27 states and the FCT.
To counter the current outbreaks, the NCDC has implemented a comprehensive, multi-tiered response strategy. The Emergency Operations Centre remains active, ensuring both national and local leadership through weekly review sessions with affected states. In addition, National Rapid Response Teams have been deployed to hotspots to reinforce local health systems.
Dr Idris also announced that essential medical supplies, including IV fluids, personal protective gear, and laboratory materials, have been pre-positioned in high-risk states to facilitate swift intervention during case surges. Furthermore, healthcare workers are receiving specialised training in infection prevention, case management, and best practices for cerebrospinal meningitis treatment.
He stressed that all these measures are geared towards strengthening the nation’s ability to respond swiftly to outbreaks, safeguard vulnerable communities, and minimise loss of life.
