Korede Abdullah in Lagos
Nigeria has entered its peak Cerebrospinal Meningitis (CSM) season, which runs from November to May, and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has raised concerns over the increasing number of cases across the country.
As of March 26, 2025, there were 807 suspected cases and 74 deaths reported across 22 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The NCDC director-general, Dr. Jide Idris, made the revelation in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja.
The NCDC director-general, Dr. Jide Idris, emphasized that the risk of transmission is high due to dry, dusty weather and overcrowding, which are common factors during the peak season.
The situation is particularly alarming in Kebbi State, which has recorded 248 suspected cases and 26 deaths since late January. In Gombe State, 70 suspected cases have been recorded, with 31 confirmed infections and three fatalities.
Dr. Idris urged residents to seek medical attention immediately if they experience symptoms such as high fever, stiff neck, or severe headaches.
He also advised Nigerians to stay safe by getting vaccinated at their nearest health centre, avoiding overcrowded and poorly ventilated places, and practising good hygiene.
To curb the outbreak, the NCDC has deployed Rapid Response Teams (RRTs) to the hardest-hit states.
These teams are working with state governments to conduct mass vaccination campaigns, strengthen case surveillance and laboratory testing, and provide free treatment for confirmed cases.
Dr. Idris reiterated that vaccination remains the most effective protection against meningitis and urged parents and community leaders to ensure children and at-risk individuals get vaccinated.
