At least 58 people have lost their lives following a fresh outbreak of cholera that has spread across 14 out of 20 local government areas in Bauchi State.
Health authorities also confirmed 258 new cases of the disease.
Bauchi State Deputy Governor, Auwal Mohammed Jatau, speaking at the inauguration of the State Cholera Steering Committee and the State Technical Working Committee, lamented that repeated cholera outbreaks have continued to take lives, disrupt livelihoods, and put severe pressure on the state’s health system.
Jatau explained, “These outbreaks are often preventable with timely interventions, coordinated responses, and sustained improvements in water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH). Bauchi State has recorded not less than 258 new cases and 58 fatalities.”
Jatau noted that cholera remains one of the major public health threats despite the state government’s efforts to tackle the disease, adding that the establishment of the cholera steering committee is not only timely but essential in achieving the desired objectives.
He continued, “It is in this regard that this committee is expected to serve as the Central Coordinating body to lead Bauchi State’s Multi-Sectoral Response to cholera outbreaks and to drive long-term prevention strategies in alignment with the National Cholera Control Plan and the broader goals of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC)”
The deputy governor told the committee members that their selection reflected their expertise, commitment, and vital role in the success of the task, expressing hope that they would guarantee strong surveillance, prompt detection, and swift response to future outbreaks.
