Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has revealed that 58 people died from cholera between January and July 2024, highlighting the need for everyone—not just the government—to take action in combating the deadly disease.
Speaking at the launch of a new emergency health project on Tuesday, the governor stressed the importance of working with all stakeholders, especially those in vulnerable communities. The project focuses on training informal food and water vendors, as well as waste workers, who are often on the frontlines and exposed to health hazards, particularly during floods.
Sanwo-Olu, who was represented by Commissioner for Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, praised the Japanese government for funding the initiative and supporting Lagos in its fight against cholera.
“Cholera remains a recurring health crisis in Nigeria, with outbreaks happening almost every year,” he said.
He referenced data from 2021, where Nigeria saw over 100,000 suspected cases and 3,500 deaths across 32 states. The picture in 2024 isn’t any better, with Lagos facing its largest cholera outbreak this year following heavy flooding in June.
Flood-affected areas like Eti-Osa, Lagos Island, Ikorodu, and Kosofe were hit hardest. As of July 2024, the state recorded 1,661 suspected cases, 70 confirmed, and 58 deaths.
Sanwo-Olu emphasized that the city’s unique challenges—rapid urban growth, poor water systems, regular flooding, and weak sanitation—create the perfect conditions for disease outbreaks. Informal vendors and waste workers are especially at risk because of their close contact with contaminated water and environments.
“These individuals are essential to our city but remain highly vulnerable,” the governor said.
He applauded LASEPA, UNIDO, and the Government of Japan for coming together to launch the emergency training program. He also pointed out the main drivers of the outbreaks: flood-contaminated water, poor hygiene practices, overwhelmed waste systems, and lack of enforcement around public health rules.
“This project is a critical step toward preventing future outbreaks and protecting the lives of Lagosians,” he added.
