The Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa, CAPPA has raised urgent concerns over Nigeria’s latest cholera outbreak, linking it to the government’s failure to ensure safe public water supplies. The NGO has called on authorities to make substantial investments in public water infrastructure to curb the recurring crisis that has affected thousands of Nigerians.
This warning comes on the heels of the Nigerian government’s confirmation of cholera outbreaks in over 25 states, including Lagos. According to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control,NCDC, 1,141 suspected cases have been reported in 2024, resulting in 30 deaths from 65 confirmed cases of cholera between January 1 and June 11.
The Lagos State Ministry of Health has identified the cholera subtype Serovars O1 as particularly aggressive and contagious. Lagos Island has been noted as the epicenter, with 106 of the state’s 350 suspected cases.
CAPPA criticized state authorities for focusing on safety guidelines and hygiene practices without addressing the fundamental issue of inadequate public water supply. “Cholera, an infectious disease causing diarrhea and severe dehydration, is typically spread through unsafe water and contaminated food. Effective management of public water and sanitation systems is crucial to controlling the disease,” the organization stated.
CAPPA’s Executive Director, Akinbode Oluwafemi, emphasized the role of privatization in exacerbating the crisis. He noted that millions of Nigerians lack access to potable water and are forced to rely on unsafe sources. “The privatization of basic amenities, including public water supply, where profit motives outweigh public needs, leaves vulnerable populations defenseless against cholera,” Oluwafemi said.
CAPPA’s Policy and Research Officer, Zikora Ibeh, highlighted the inequality in access to water. Despite being one of Nigeria’s most progressive cities, Lagos still struggles with inadequate public water and sanitation facilities. Ibeh called for actionable plans that prioritize public welfare over corporate interests.
“To prevent future outbreaks and safeguard public health, there must be intentional and substantial investment in public water delivery and sanitation systems, especially in informal and marginalized communities,” Oluwafemi added.
CAPPA urged the government to develop adequate public water supply systems, ensuring all citizens have access to clean water regardless of socio-economic status. They also called for improved funding for public health facilities and enhanced capacity for health professionals to respond to emergencies.
In the meantime, CAPPA advised citizens to boil drinking water, maintain proper hygiene, and promptly report cholera symptoms to local health centres.
The organization stressed that only through significant political will and investment in public infrastructure can Nigeria effectively combat cholera and protect its most vulnerable populations.
