The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reported a significant 128% increase in cholera cases in the country, with Lagos State accounting for 60% of all cases. The NCDC stated that Lagos Island was the most affected Local Government Area (LGA).
As of September 1, the NCDC reported 7,056 suspected cases, compared to 3,096 cases at the same point in 2023. The death toll has also increased by 106% with 204 fatalities in 2024.
Cholera is a severe diarrheal illness caused by the bacterium Vibrio cholera, which remains a significant health challenge, especially in regions with inadequate sanitation and clean water access.
Public health experts have pointed to inadequate sanitation in densely populated urban areas as a major contributor to the surge in cases. Epidemiologist John Okoro emphasized the need for government intervention, stating, “Improving access to safe drinking water and investing in sanitation infrastructure should be a top priority.”
Environmental health specialist Peter Adamu also stressed the importance of addressing long-standing infrastructure gaps, particularly in urban slums. He called for a comprehensive approach to urban health planning, underscoring the need for multi-sectoral collaboration.
The NCDC is intensifying rapid diagnostic testing and stool culture tests to contain the outbreak, and has identified other heavily affected states, including Bayelsa, Katsina, and Zamfara. Vulnerable groups, particularly children under five, remain the most affected.
