Nigeria Confirms Meningitis Outbreak in Kebbi and Sokoto States
Nigerian authorities have confirmed that a meningitis outbreak in the northwest has caused at least 26 deaths since late January. The outbreak, which started in Kebbi State, has led to over 200 suspected cases, according to State Commissioner for Health, Musa Ismail.
In response, medical supplies have been dispatched, and isolation centers set up to curb further spread. The neighboring Sokoto State has also raised an alert, urging residents to seek medical attention if they experience high fever, stiff neck, or severe headaches—key symptoms of the disease.
Nigeria’s Ongoing Health Challenges
Meningitis, which thrives in Nigeria’s hot season, remains a major public health concern in the country, especially within the African Meningitis Belt. In addition to this outbreak, Nigeria continues to battle malaria, carrying the world’s highest malaria burden.
Authorities are concerned that the recent withdrawal of U.S. aid from the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) may hamper disease control efforts.
Previous Outbreaks and Eradication Efforts
Between 2022 and 2023, Nigeria recorded 2,765 suspected meningitis cases and 190 deaths, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC). A similar outbreak in 2024 resulted in 153 fatalities, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Nigeria is currently working toward the World Health Assembly’s goal of eradicating meningitis by 2030, implementing a national roadmap to strengthen surveillance, vaccination, and treatment efforts.
Source: africanews