Bauchi State government has decried the recent cholera outbreak in the state which claimed lives, disrupted livelihoods and placed enormous strain on the state’s health institutions.
Similarly, authorities in Bauchi have inaugurated a Cholera Steering and Technical Committee, urging members to approach the assigned responsibilities with passion, professionalism and urgency to tackle the bacterial disease.
Bauchi deputy governor, Auwal Jatau, who inaugurated the committee at the Banquet Hall, Government House, Bauchi, noted that cholera remains one of the major public health threats despite the state government’s and partners’ effort to tackle the disease. He pointed out that the establishment of the committee is not only timely, but essential in achieving the desired objectives.
“These outbreaks are often preventable with timely interventions, coordinated responses, and sustained improvements in water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH).
“It is in this regard that the these Committee is expected to serve as the Central Co-ordinating bodies to lead Bauchi State’s Multi-Sectoral Response to cholera outbreaks and to drive long-term prevention strategies in alignment with the National Cholera Control Plan and the broader goals of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC)”
He told members of the committees that their nomination is a recognition of their expertise, dedication, and strategic importance to the success of the assignment and hoped that they would ensure effective surveillance, early detection, and rapid response to outbreaks.
The deputy governor assured health partners of the readiness of Governor Bala Mohammed towards providing the necessary support and the enabling environment for effective implementation of programmes.
On his part, the commissioner for Health, Dr Sani Dambam who is the chairman of the technical committee promised to work collectively towards achieving their mandate.
