Lagos, Nigeria's most populous city, is grappling with a cholera outbreak that has claimed 24 lives, with 35 confirmed cases and 417 suspected cases reported across the state. The outbreak has spread across all 20 local government areas, with Ajeromi, Kosofe, Epe, Ikorodu, Alimosho, and Eti-Osa being the most affected.

Experts blame the Nigerian government for neglecting water and sanitation, which has led to the spread of the disease. Despite being surrounded by water, Lagos struggles with access to clean water, and sanitation remains a challenge. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has reported a global resurgence of cholera, with 46,364 new cases reported in 19 countries in May 2024, representing a 58% increase from the previous month.

Public health experts warn that without improved water, sanitation, and hygiene, cholera will remain endemic in Lagos and Nigeria. The United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) Chief, Lagos Field Office, Celine Lafoucrier, emphasizes the need for urgent government focus on ensuring clean water supply to prevent disease outbreaks like cholera, which causes an estimated 100,000 deaths annually.

Dr. Casmir Ifeanyi, a public health disease expert, criticizes the government for paying lip service to water, sanitation, and hygiene. He stresses the need for improved WASH practices, including addressing open defecation and ensuring access to clean water to prevent future outbreaks. The Lagos State government is urged to prioritize improved detection and surveillance of cholera, implement stricter food safety protocols, and deploy cholera vaccines, particularly for school children. Individual vigilance and community-led approaches are also essential in combating the outbreak.

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