Nearly 8,000 suspected cholera cases and 74 deaths have been recorded in just five weeks, as the outbreak spreads across 14 local government areas and 50 wards.
Health facilities are struggling to cope with the growing number of patients, with aid organisation Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) treating more than 7,400 people and expanding its treatment centres in Maiduguri to accommodate the surge.
MSF says the outbreak peaked on June 5, with over 500 patients admitted in a single day. Many victims reportedly arrive in critical condition after travelling long distances to seek medical help.
Authorities and humanitarian partners are intensifying efforts through emergency treatment, water chlorination, community sensitisation and plans for a cholera vaccination campaign.
The outbreak is a stark reminder of the urgent need for improved access to clean water, sanitation and healthcare in vulnerable communities.
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