Cholera Outbreak in Nigeria: What Abuja Residents Need to Know (2025)

The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) has declared a national emergency following a fast-rising cholera outbreak that has spread to 107 Local Government Areas across 31 states, including parts of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

We know Abuja has clean areas, but cholera doesn’t care about your postcode. If water is contaminated, it will spread.

Dr. Tunji Bakare (name withheld), public health officer at FCT Health Secretariat

With over 1,598 suspected cases and dozens of deaths, health officials in Abuja are urging residents to stay alert — especially in areas with water scarcity and poor drainage.

🧍🏽‍♀️ Voices from the Ground

“We’ve heard that people in nearby communities fell sick after drinking well water. Now I boil everything, even water for brushing.”
— Amaka (name withheld), mother of three in Bwari

“We saw NCDC vans in our area last weekend. They warned us not to buy roadside drinks or uncooked food.”
— Suleiman Yusuf, student in Gwagwalada

🦠 What is Cholera?

Cholera is a bacterial infection that spreads through contaminated water and food. It causes:

• Severe diarrhea

• Vomiting

• Rapid dehydration

• Can lead to death within hours if untreated

  
  

🛑 How It Spreads in Abuja:

• Contaminated boreholes or wells

• Food from unregulated vendors

• Poor sanitation, especially during the rainy season

• Blocked drainages and open defecation in outskirts

  
  

✅ What to Do If You Suspect Cholera:

• Go immediately to a health center

• Rehydrate with ORS (Oral Rehydration Salt) or homemade mix (1 liter water + 6 tsp sugar + ½ tsp salt)

• Do not wait for symptoms to “pass” — early treatment is critical

  
  

🏥 Where to Get Help in Abuja:

You can also call NCDC Toll-Free Line: 6232

🧽 Prevention Tips:

• Boil or treat water before drinking

• Wash fruits and vegetables with clean water

• Avoid roadside drinks and uncooked foods

• Always wash hands with soap, especially after using the toilet

• Use toilets or latrines — never defecate near water sources

✅ FAQs

Q: Are there cholera cases in Abuja?
A: Yes. While not the worst-hit state, Abuja has confirmed suspected cases and is part of the national response.

Q: Can cholera be treated at home?
A: No. You can start with rehydration, but hospital treatment is essential to avoid death.

Q: Is sachet water safe?
A: Only NAFDAC-approved sachet water is considered safe. Always check for expiry and seal.