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The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to make diphtheria immunisation mandatory across the country and ensure free treatment for affected citizens, as Nigeria continues to grapple with recurring outbreaks of the deadly disease.

During Tuesday’s plenary session, lawmakers expressed deep concern over the rising cases of diphtheria, particularly in the northern states, urging urgent and coordinated action to prevent further loss of lives.

The resolution followed a motion raised by Hon. Kabiru Idris (APC, Kano), who warned that failure to act swiftly could result in a nationwide health emergency.

“The resurgence of diphtheria in many communities is a serious public health concern. Children are dying from a disease that is entirely preventable,” Idris said while presenting the motion. “We must act now by making immunisation mandatory and providing free, accessible treatment to all Nigerians.”

The House unanimously adopted the motion and tasked the Federal Ministry of Health, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), and other relevant bodies to intensify public awareness campaigns and vaccination drives in high-risk areas.

Lawmakers also urged the government to partner with international health organisations such as the WHO and UNICEF to improve vaccine supply chains and ensure comprehensive coverage.

In its directive, the House Committee on Healthcare Services was mandated to oversee implementation and report back within four weeks.

Diphtheria is a highly contagious bacterial infection that primarily affects the throat and respiratory tract, and it has seen a disturbing resurgence in Nigeria in recent years, largely due to gaps in immunisation coverage and poor access to healthcare in rural areas.