The Bauchi State Government has inaugurated the State Cholera Steering and Technical Committees as part of efforts to combat recurring cholera outbreaks across the state.
Speaking at the inauguration ceremony held in Bauchi, the Deputy Governor, Auwal Jatau, who also serves as Chairman of the Steering Committee urged members to discharge their responsibilities with dedication, passion, and professionalism.
He emphasised the government’s commitment to strengthening disease prevention and control mechanisms to safeguard public health.
He said “the Inauguration comes amid recurring cholera outbreaks that had continued to claim lives, disrupt livelihoods, and strain the state’s healthcare system.”
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Jatau described cholera as one of the major public health threats in the state in spite the government and partners continuous interventions.
He said that “the establishment of the committees was timely and crucial for coordinated action to prevent future outbreaks.”
“These outbreaks are often preventable with timely interventions, coordinated responses, and sustained improvements in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH),” Jatau stated.
He explained that the committees would serve as the central coordinating bodies to lead Bauchi State’s multi-sectoral response to cholera outbreaks.
Jatau added that the committees would drive long-term prevention strategies in line with the National Cholera Control Plan and the broader goals of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, NCDC.
He emphasised that members of the committees were selection based on their expertise and strategic importance to the assignment,
He urged members to focus on effective surveillance, early detection, and rapid response to potential outbreaks.
Jatau also reassured health partners of Governor Bala Mohammed’s commitment to providing full support and an enabling environment for the committees to succeed.
Dr Sani Dambam, Commissioner for Health and Chairman of the Technical Committee, pledged to work collaboratively with stakeholders to achieve the state’s cholera control and prevention mandate.
Mr Mashat Mallo, the State Team Lead Water Aid, reiterated the commitment of that Water Aid to support the state government and ensure that cholera is reduced to the barest minimum.
He called for improved access to clean water and hygiene services as well as improved good healthcare and prevent infectious diseases.
NAN