Seventeen people have passed away due to diphtheria in Niger State over the past seven months. Health officials identified 124 total cases concentrated within the Bida, Suleja, and Shiroro local government areas. Dr. Murtala Muhammad Bagana, the Commissioner for Health, stated in Minna that 103 individuals have successfully recovered and been released from care. Current figures indicate three additional cases have surfaced, with one patient remaining under medical supervision.
The state government has ramped up its response through improved monitoring, clinical management, and public health campaigns. Dr. Samuel Jiya, the Director of Disease Control and Immunisation, identified low vaccination rates as the primary driver of the crisis. He emphasized that children who lack complete routine immunizations are at the greatest risk.
Investigations show that many affected minors either never received the pentavalent vaccine or only obtained a single dose. Dr. Jiya stressed that the three-dose series administered at six, 10, and 14 weeks is vital for immunity. He attributed these coverage gaps to population movement, persistent myths, and local cultural resistance to vaccines. Furthermore, the state is administering Tetanus-Diphtheria shots to expectant mothers to help shield infants. Regarding measles, authorities noted a decrease in infections, reporting 31 suspected cases with nine confirmed and two fatalities this year.
