Kebbi State University of Science and Technology, Aliero (KSUSTA), has been hit by a heartbreaking meningitis outbreak that has claimed the lives of six students. The university confirmed the incident in a statement released by its Public Relations Officer, Mustapha Ango.
On behalf of the university management, Ango expressed deep sorrow over the loss and extended heartfelt condolences to the families affected. He noted that the Vice-Chancellor, B. G. Danshehu, is profoundly saddened by the tragedy.
According to Ango, the university responded swiftly upon detecting early signs of the disease.
“Upon detecting the initial signs of the outbreak, KSUSTA took immediate and decisive action to mitigate the spread of the disease,” he stated.
A special committee led by the Provost of the College of Health Sciences, Prof. Balarabe Adamu Isah, was tasked with investigating the outbreak and coordinating response efforts. The university also alerted the Kebbi State Ministry of Health and the Ministry for Higher Education.
A stakeholders’ meeting was held, bringing together representatives from major health organizations including the World Health Organisation (WHO), UNICEF, Médecins Sans Frontières, and other medical professionals.
Despite these swift interventions, six students unfortunately lost their lives.
“Despite the best efforts of the university and health authorities, six students have succumbed to the disease. We deeply regret these losses, and our thoughts and prayers are with the affected families,” the statement read.
Ango urged students and members of the university community seeking information to reach out to the Public Relations Office for updates. He also thanked all stakeholders for their continued support during this difficult time, assuring them that the university is working tirelessly to control the situation.
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