The Nigerian Meteorological Agency (NiMet) has issued a public health advisory warning that several northern states face a heightened risk of cerebrospinal meningitis (CSM) as dry season conditions intensify across parts of Nigeria.
In a post on its X handle, NiMet explained that the disease is a serious infection that affects the protective membranes covering the brain and spinal cord and is commonly caused by the bacterium Neisseria meningitidis.
The agency also explained that CSM spreads through respiratory droplets, particularly in crowded or poorly ventilated environments.
NiMet identified Sokoto, Zamfara, Kebbi, Katsina, Kano, Jigawa, Adamawa, Gombe, Bauchi, Yobe, and Borno as high-risk states for the disease and categorised Plateau, Oyo, Cross River, Edo, Ekiti, and Enugu as low-vigilance areas.
It urged residents in the central parts of the country to remain alert
“Stay informed. Follow public health guidance and participate in community awareness campaigns,” the agency said.
“Protect yourself and your community. Early awareness, vaccination, and prompt treatment save lives,” it added.
NiMet noted that while the disease can progress rapidly and become life-threatening within hours if untreated, early diagnosis and prompt antibiotic treatment significantly improve survival and reduce complications.
It identified children and young adults, people living in overcrowded environments, individuals exposed to dry and dusty conditions, and those with weakened immune systems as among the most vulnerable groups.
NiMet, listed symptoms to watch for to include sudden high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, nausea or vomiting, and sensitivity to light and also offered preventive measures.
“Vaccination is one of the most effective ways to prevent meningitis. Practise good hygiene. Wash hands regularly and avoid sharing personal items like cups or utensils.
“Ensure good ventilation in homes, schools, and public spaces. Seek early medical care. Watch out for symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, neck stiffness, vomiting, and sensitivity to light,” it stated.
Outbreaks of meningitis are common in the country particularly in northern states during the dry season and Nigeria carries out routine immunization in children to provide long time protection.
“In March 2024, Nigeria became the first country to roll out the Men 5 CV ( Men five) vaccine which protects against the five strains of meningococcus bacteria ( A,C,W,Y, and X.)
In April 2025, Nigeria received more than one million doses of meningococcal conjugate vaccines to combat an outbreak that had already recorded over 800 cases and more than 70 deaths across several states.
The mass vaccination campaigns specifically targets individuals aged 1-29 in high – risk areas
