The Ministry of Water Resources has advocated for reinforced coordination from all partners to prevent cholera deaths, as over 3,598 deaths were recorded in 2021 in Nigeria.
The data received from the Cholera Situation Report for 2021 indicated that the age group of five to 14 years were the most affected, with Bauchi, Jigawa, Zamfara and Kano States leading.
This was the thrust at the National Water, Sanitation and Hygiene, WASH in Emergency Group Meeting in Abuja, with participation from line ministries and development partners.
Director, Water Quality Control and Sanitation with the ministry Emmanuel Awe, said it was worrisome that cholera deaths still occurred in many parts of the country. He also noted that there was no doubt that humanitarian assistance was of cardinal importance for victims of emergencies, with assistance in an organized and coordinated manner.
The Director, while thanking UNICEF for its role in leadership and support, said the renewed commitment of all stakeholders was needed.
UNICEF Chief of WASH, Jane Bevan, said it was shocking that cholera cases were higher than COVID-19 in 2021, calling for renewed coordination from all key stakeholders. Also, UNICEF WASH Manager, Oumar Doumbouya, noted that updating the National and States Cholera preparedness and response plans and costs were needed.
