Borno State Governor, Babagana Umara Zulum, has directed the immediate distribution of free cholera medications, medical consumables, and hygiene materials to health facilities across the state as authorities intensify efforts to contain a growing outbreak of acute watery diarrhoea.
The intervention follows a surge in cholera cases that has claimed 37 lives and infected more than 3,000 people across seven local government areas, with the highest number of cases recorded in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council and Jere.
The Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health and Human Services, Dr. Shettima Maina Mohammed, disclosed the development while presenting medical supplies to healthcare facilities managing affected patients in Maiduguri.
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According to him, the state government procured the drugs and consumables to ensure that all cholera patients receive treatment free of charge at designated health centres.
He noted that the supplies, worth millions of naira, have been distributed to treatment facilities to strengthen the state’s response to the outbreak.
Mohammed praised Governor Zulum for promptly releasing funds for the procurement of the medical materials, describing the move as a demonstration of the administration’s commitment to improving healthcare delivery and safeguarding public health.
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As part of measures to curb the spread of the disease, health officials have launched extensive awareness campaigns across communities in Maiduguri and Jere, educating residents on hygiene and sanitation practices.
The team also paid an advocacy visit to the Shehu of Borno, Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai El-Kanemi, seeking the support of traditional institutions in mobilising communities and promoting disease prevention.
Mohammed urged community and traditional leaders to intensify public enlightenment efforts, stressing the importance of maintaining proper hygiene and seeking immediate medical attention when symptoms occur.
In response, the Shehu of Borno commended the governor’s swift intervention and pledged the support of traditional rulers in educating residents on preventive measures to help contain the outbreak.
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Health officials also visited Old Maiduguri, Gamboru, and Shehuri South communities, where residents received sensitisation on sanitation, personal hygiene, and other preventive practices.
Meanwhile, drugs, personal protective equipment, medical consumables, and hygiene materials have been delivered to the Emergency and Infectious Disease Hospital in Njimtilo and the Ngarannam Infectious Disease Camp, where affected patients are currently receiving treatment.
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