Drinking Water in Nigeria: A Public Health Threat and Burden
Abstract
The problems with drinking water encountered in underdeveloped countries are not new or unique. Governments that are unable to provide safe drinking water and other basic, fundamental public services are likely to experience outbreaks of infectious disease. Poverty is also a contributing factor to increased incidence of infectious disease among the population. All of these conditions can be mitigated with the efforts from the United States and the international community. Nigeria is a country suffering from the crippling burden of disease resulting from unsafe drinking water. The prevalent diseases of unsafe drinking water in Nigeria include cholera, guinea worm, hepatitis, and shigellosis. Additionally, the country is dealing with security issues and instability from religious squabbles between Muslims in the northern region of Nigeria and Christians in the southern region. The economic, political, social, and health-related problems faced by the population of Nigeria require intervention from the government of Nigeria as well as foreign stakeholders. United States Africa Command (AFRICOM) has the capability to influence and shape the continent of Africa, and Nigeria should be near top of the list of countries demanding priority. The US has vital national security interests in Nigeria that include petroleum products, counterterrorism, and ensure governmental stability that sets the example for other African nations. The mission of AFRICOM provides the mechanism and funding for appropriate action to mitigate the disease burden from unsafe drinking water in Nigeria.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 2009
- Accession Number
- ADA539953
Entities
People
- Roderick L. Boyce
Organizations
- Air Command and Staff College