Nigeria Faces Multiple Infectious Disease Outbreaks
Nigeria is currently facing a significant public health crisis, with multiple infectious diseases spreading across the country. As of May 31, 2026, there have been 208 deaths from Lassa fever and 67 fatalities from cholera. These figures highlight the severity of the situation, especially as fears grow about the potential spread of Ebola from neighboring countries like Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Despite being a recurring issue, the outbreaks of Lassa fever and cholera have not been effectively contained. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) reported that cholera has infected 5,260 people and claimed 67 lives in 128 Local Government Areas across 33 states and the Federal Capital Territory. In Borno State, a contaminated community dam was identified as the source of a cholera outbreak that affected seven Local Government Areas and infected around 3,000 residents. This incident underscores the dangers of relying on unsafe water sources.
The NCDC also noted a 73% increase in suspected cholera cases in May 2026 compared to the same period in 2025, with children under five years old being the most affected group. Meanwhile, Lassa fever continues to spread, particularly among young adults aged 21 to 30. The latest NCDC report indicates that between epidemiological weeks one and 21 of 2026, Nigeria recorded 829 confirmed Lassa fever cases and 208 deaths, a sharp rise from the 141 deaths recorded during the same period in 2025.
Challenges in Healthcare Infrastructure
Leading virologists have pointed to the state of Nigeria’s healthcare facilities as a major factor contributing to these outbreaks. They emphasized the lack of active infectious disease laboratories, routine surveillance, and monitoring. These deficiencies make it difficult to detect and respond to emerging threats in a timely manner.
As Nigeria grapples with these challenges, concerns are growing over the possibility of an Ebola outbreak. On May 15, 2026, health authorities in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda declared outbreaks of Ebola caused by the Bundibugyo virus. A day later, the World Health Organisation declared the outbreak a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
By June 3, 2026, the DRC had reported 381 confirmed Ebola cases, including 64 deaths, while Uganda had recorded 15 confirmed cases and one death. In response, the NCDC has activated enhanced surveillance at international airports, intensified public sensitisation efforts, and placed some states on high alert. However, experts warn that Nigeria’s preparedness remains largely reactive rather than preventive.
Expert Warnings and Calls for Action
Professor Oyewale Tomori, a renowned virologist and former Regional Virologist for the WHO Africa Region, criticized Nigeria’s approach to managing infectious diseases. He argued that the country continues to repeat the same mistakes despite decades of experience. Tomori stressed that each infectious disease requires specific interventions tailored to its mode of transmission.
He highlighted the failures in basic public health infrastructure, noting that many Nigerians still lack access to safe drinking water. “We shouldn’t be having cholera in Nigeria at this time. Why should we? Why are people dying of cholera? It is a disease we know the cause of and what to do with it,” he said.
Tomori also criticized Nigeria’s handling of Lassa fever, calling the country’s response predictable and repetitive. He urged the government to use the period between outbreaks to address the factors driving transmission rather than waiting until cases surge.
Strengthening Surveillance and Preparedness
Professor Sunday Omilabu, a Professor of Medical Virology, echoed these concerns, stating that Nigeria’s recurring outbreaks expose weaknesses in surveillance and preparedness. He emphasized the need for routine monitoring and surveillance rather than focusing only on emergencies.
Omilabu also called for improved environmental surveillance at international airports, particularly for aircraft arriving from regions where Ebola is spreading. He warned that an Ebola outbreak would further strain an already overstretched health system.
Experts agree that Nigeria must invest in surveillance, laboratory capacity, health education, and hospital preparedness to reduce the impact of existing outbreaks and guard against the risk of Ebola entering the country. Without these measures, the country risks facing even more severe public health crises in the future.
The Path Forward
To address these challenges, Nigeria needs a comprehensive strategy that includes strengthening healthcare infrastructure, improving access to clean water, and investing in diagnostic laboratories. Public awareness campaigns and community engagement will also play a crucial role in preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
As the country faces multiple health threats, it is clear that a proactive and sustained effort is needed to protect public health and prevent future outbreaks. Only through coordinated action can Nigeria hope to overcome these challenges and build a more resilient healthcare system.
