ABUJA | APRIL 15, 2026
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has raised the alarm over an imminent cholera outbreak in 10 states: Adamawa, Enugu, Kaduna, Kogi, Niger, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Taraba, and Kwara.
In a statement on Wednesday, the NCDC said the warning followed flood predictions issued by the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency, indicating that the affected states would experience heavy rainfall and flooding between April 13 and 17, 2026.
"Recent national surveillance data show increasing cholera activity across multiple states. Flooding during this period can rapidly increase the risk of disease outbreaks due to contamination of drinking water sources, disruption of sanitation systems, and increased exposure of communities to unsafe environmental conditions," the NCDC stated.
The agency advised residents to use only safe water for drinking and cooking by boiling, chlorinating, or using bottled water; wash hands frequently with soap and clean water; avoid contact with floodwater; and maintain proper sanitation including safe waste disposal and avoiding open defecation.
NCDC Director General, Dr Jide Idris, confirmed the agency is working closely with State Ministries of Health and relevant partners to strengthen surveillance, enhance preparedness, and support rapid response in affected areas.
