Chukwu Obinna in Abuja
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has confirmed 150 positive cases of cholera in Niger State, alongside 16 deaths since the outbreak began.
The figures were disclosed on Friday in Minna by UNICEF’s Chief of the Kaduna Field Office, Dr Gerida Birukila, during an advocacy visit to the Emir of Minna, Alhaji Umar Farouq Bahago. Dr Birukila, represented by Health Specialist Dr Ahmed Tsofo, said a total of 451 suspected cholera cases had been recorded, of which 150 were confirmed positive through rapid diagnostic testing.
“Those confirmed positive have been treated and discharged,” Dr Tsofo said. “We have now recorded 16 deaths. We informed the Emir of our ongoing support and the collaboration between UNICEF and the state government to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread.”
The UNICEF delegation also raised other public health concerns during the meeting, including polio, measles, and the state’s low rate of exclusive breastfeeding.
According to Dr Tsofo, traditional institutions have a vital role to play in tackling these challenges. “We came to advocate for the Emir’s personal support, as well as the backing of the traditional institution, for health interventions we are implementing in Niger,” he explained.
He urged the Emir’s involvement in upcoming initiatives, such as in-between rounds of the polio eradication campaign, and sought support for the introduction of measles and rubella vaccines in October.
Dr Tsofo emphasised that diseases like cholera, polio, and measles could be eliminated through sustained collaboration between the government, development partners, and traditional leaders.
In his response, the Emir of Minna assured UNICEF of the emirate’s full support. “We will continue to work in the interest of our people and support your activities in all areas of intervention,” the Emir said. He also prayed for the success of efforts to eradicate these diseases in the state.
The cholera outbreak in Niger underscores the continuing threat of waterborne diseases in Nigeria, particularly in areas with limited access to clean water and sanitation. Health experts warn that timely treatment, improved hygiene, and preventive vaccination campaigns are critical to reducing mortality and halting the spread of such infections.
