The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has placed 10 states on high alert following forecasts of heavy rainfall and flooding, warning of a heightened risk of disease outbreaks, particularly cholera.
In a statement released, NCDC Director-General, Jide Idris, said projections by the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency indicate that parts of Adamawa, Enugu, Kaduna, Kogi, Niger, Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Taraba, and Kwara states will experience intense rainfall this month.
Idris said the warning comes at a critical period in Nigeria’s public health calendar, as the country enters the seasonal window when cholera cases typically surge. Early surveillance data, he noted, already shows rising infections in several states.
“These forecasts are particularly concerning because they coincide with the period when cholera transmission typically accelerates. Flooding can contaminate water sources and disrupt sanitation systems, creating conditions for rapid spread,” Idris said.
Historical data from past outbreaks show that flood-prone states often record spikes in cholera cases during the rainy season, especially in communities with limited access to potable water and poor waste management systems. Thousands of suspected cases are recorded annually during peak periods, with fatalities largely linked to delayed treatment and weak health infrastructure.
Beyond cholera, the NCDC warned of increased risks of other diarrhoeal diseases and mosquito-borne infections such as malaria, which remains endemic across the country.
“Floodwaters not only increase exposure to pathogens but also create breeding sites for mosquitoes, raising the risk of malaria and other infections,” Idris added.
He further cautioned that residents in affected areas may face additional dangers, including drowning, snakebites, and disruptions to healthcare access, particularly in rural and underserved communities.
risks, Idris emphasised that early action and public compliance with preventive measures can significantly reduce the impact.
“These risks are largely preventable. We urge residents in the affected states to ensure they use safe water, maintain hygiene, avoid contact with floodwaters, and seek prompt medical care if symptoms develop,” he said.
He also called on community leaders and local authorities to intensify environmental sanitation efforts, including clearing blocked drainage systems and promoting hygiene awareness.
“Community-level action is critical. Early reporting of suspected cases and dissemination of accurate health information will go a long way in preventing outbreaks,” Idris stated.
On preparedness, the NCDC said it is working closely with state ministries of health to strengthen surveillance systems and improve rapid response in high-risk areas. State governments have also been advised to activate emergency frameworks, particularly in water, sanitation, and hygiene services.
Nigeria continues to grapple with seasonal flooding driven by climate variability, rapid urbanisation, and inadequate drainage infrastructure. Experts warn that without sustained investment in resilient systems, flood-related disease outbreaks will remain a recurring threat.
As heavy rains loom, health authorities stress that vigilance, early intervention, and community cooperation will be key to preventing avoidable illness and deaths.
