Zamfara State has intensified efforts to contain a cholera outbreak through a reactive oral cholera vaccination (OCV) campaign, supported by the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and other partners. The campaign targeted six high-burden Local Government Areas (LGAs)—Gusau, Bungudu, Zurmi, Anka, Talata Mafara, and Shinkafi—following the release of 1,194,742 OCV doses from the International Coordinating Group (ICG) global stockpile for Nigeria and the training of over 1,800 frontline workers. Over six days, 964,765 individuals aged 1 to 45 years across 20 wards received the lifesaving vaccine.
During the campaign’s flag-off, Zamfara State Commissioner Dr. Nafisa Muhammad Maradun emphasized that the vaccination initiative forms part of a broader response, including activating the State Infectious Disease Hospital, distributing essential medicines, and strengthening disease surveillance. WHO Zamfara State Coordinator Dr. Raji Mukhtar highlighted the importance of vaccination alongside surveillance, case management, and Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) interventions for effective cholera control.
Cholera has affected all 14 LGAs in Zamfara State, with the six high-risk LGAs accounting for more than 85% of total cases. The state government coordinates the response through the State Emergency Operations Centre, while WHO provides technical and operational support, supplies essential medicines, cholera kits, IV fluids, and diagnostic tools, funded generously by the Government of Japan.
Community engagement has been critical to the campaign’s success. Residents such as Fatima Kabiru expressed relief and appreciation for the free vaccination, while vaccinators reported high acceptance and cooperation among households. Despite the vaccine’s protective benefits, WHO continues to stress preventive measures, including the use of boiled or chlorinated water, frequent handwashing, safe sanitation, thoroughly cooked food, and seeking immediate medical care when experiencing diarrhoea or vomiting.
The oral cholera vaccination campaign in Zamfara State demonstrates the effectiveness of strong government leadership, multi-partner collaboration, and community involvement in public health interventions. It also aligns with Nigeria’s National Strategic Plan of Action for Cholera Control (NSPACC) 2025–2029, reinforcing the country’s commitment to controlling cholera outbreaks and protecting vulnerable populations.
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