NCDC, in a statement, yesterday, said the alarm followed flood predictions issued by the Federal Ministry of Environment and the Nigerian Meteorological Agency indicating that the aforementioned states would experience heavy rainfall and flooding between 13th and 17th April 2026.

NCDC noted that, already, cases of cholera are on the rise across the cholera-prone states, and that could simply be attributed to the rainy season, and flood that might have contaminated people’s sources of food and water.

It said: “Recent national surveillance data show increasing cholera activity across multiple states. Flooding during this period can rapidly increase the risk of disease outbreaks due to contamination of drinking water sources, disruption of sanitation systems, and increased exposure of communities to unsafe environmental conditions. Importantly, these risks are preventable with early action.”

NCDC, thus asked residents in the affected and at-risk states/areas to use only safe water for drinking and cooking (boil, chlorinate, or use bottled water), wash hands frequently with soap and clean water especially before eating and after using the toilet, avoid contact with floodwater as much as possible, maintain proper sanitation including safe disposal of waste and avoidance of open defecation.

NCDC also asked the residents to handle and store food safely to prevent contamination, sleep under insecticide-treated nets to prevent mosquito bites, and seek care immediately at the nearest health facility in cases of diarrhoea, vomiting or fever.

It, however, highlighted the roles expected of community leaders and local authorities in preventing outbreaks, and encouraged them to support environmental sanitation and drainage clearance, promote access to safe water and hygiene practices, encourage early reporting of suspected illness, and support dissemination of accurate public health information.

Director General of NCDC, Dr. Jide Idris, confirmed that the Agency is working closely with State Ministries of Health and relevant partners to strengthen surveillance, enhance preparedness, and support rapid response in affected areas.

He also stated that state governments are also being supported to activate multisectoral response mechanisms, particularly in water, sanitation, and emergency management, insisting that early action, community vigilance, and prompt care-seeking can prevent outbreaks and save lives.

The management of Plateau State Specialist Hospital has refuted reports circulating on social media alleging tension within the facility over a purported plot by terrorists to abduct doctors and other staff.

In a press release issued on April 15, 2026, and signed by the hospital’s Public Relations Officer, Talatu Achan Angi, the management described the claims as misleading and sensational.

The statement clarified that the circular referenced in the viral report was strictly an internal communication intended as part of routine security briefings to staff. According to the hospital, such communications are standard practice aimed at encouraging vigilance and caution, particularly in light of prevailing security concerns.

“The circular was not an indication of any imminent threat but a proactive measure to ensure staff remain security-conscious in the course of their duties,” the statement explained.

Addressing concerns raised by the report, the management firmly stated that there is no form of tension within the hospital. It emphasized that both staff and patients are going about their normal activities, with all clinical services continuing without any disruption.

The hospital further urged members of the public to disregard any information capable of causing panic or undermining the relative peace in the state.

Reassuring the public, the management affirmed that the facility remains safe, fully operational, and committed to delivering quality healthcare services.

It also encouraged patients and residents to continue to access medical care at the hospital, noting that all relevant personnel are on ground and ready to attend to their needs.