The death toll from a cholera outbreak in Borno State has risen to at least 90, while more than 12,000 people have been infected, according to the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA).
The outbreak, which began in early May, has spread rapidly across the conflict-affected northeastern state, raising concerns among health officials and humanitarian agencies. The latest figures represent a sharp increase from the 74 deaths and approximately 7,800 infections previously reported.
In response to the growing public health emergency, humanitarian organizations are intensifying efforts to contain the disease through expanded treatment services, enhanced disease surveillance, and improved access to clean water and sanitation facilities.
OCHA said aid agencies are working closely with government authorities to curb the spread of the waterborne disease, which thrives in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to safe drinking water.
To strengthen the emergency response, OCHA has allocated $4 million from its managed humanitarian funds. However, the agency warned that additional resources are urgently needed to support prevention measures, expand treatment capacity, and protect vulnerable communities from further infections.
Borno State, which has endured years of conflict and displacement caused by insurgency, remains particularly vulnerable to disease outbreaks due to overcrowded living conditions and inadequate access to healthcare and sanitation services.
Health authorities have continued to urge residents to maintain proper hygiene practices, drink safe water, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as severe diarrhoea and vomiting occur.
The cholera outbreak is the latest humanitarian challenge facing the region, where millions of people continue to depend on aid for survival.