The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has placed 10 states on high alert over a possible cholera outbreak following forecasts of heavy rainfall and flooding.
In a statement on Wednesday, the agency’s Director-General, Dr Jide Idris, said projections by the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency indicated that parts of Adamawa, Enugu, Kaduna, Kogi, Niger, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Taraba and Kwara states would experience intense rainfall between April 13 and 17, 2026.
He warned that the development coincides with Nigeria’s peak period for cholera transmission, raising concerns over a potential surge in infections.
According to him, flooding could contaminate water sources and disrupt sanitation systems, thereby creating conditions for the rapid spread of the disease.
The NCDC boss also noted that, beyond cholera, the affected states face increased risks of other diarrhoeal diseases and mosquito-borne infections such as malaria.
He added that flooding could expose residents to injuries, including drowning and snakebites, while also disrupting access to healthcare, especially in rural communities.
Idris, however, stressed that the risks could be mitigated through preventive measures, urging residents to ensure access to safe water, maintain proper hygiene and avoid contact with floodwaters.
He also called on community leaders and local authorities to intensify sanitation efforts, including clearing blocked drainages and promoting public health awareness.
The NCDC said it is collaborating with state governments to strengthen surveillance, enhance preparedness and support rapid response efforts in high-risk areas.
It urged early reporting of suspected cases and adherence to health guidelines to avert a potential outbreak.
