**Deadly Diseases on the Rise: Why We Must Act Now** Nigeria is facing a health crisis of epic proportions. The latest statistics from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) paint a dire picture: 1,738 lives lost and over 9,164 people infected with communicable diseases such as diphtheria, cholera, Lassa fever, and measles in 2025 alone. The numbers are a stark reminder of the urgent need for action to contain the spread of these deadly diseases. The NCDC's Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, recently sounded the alarm at a stakeholders' workshop in Abuja, where he highlighted the compounding factors contributing to the outbreak, including climate-related emergencies, population mobility, and pressure on our already-strained healthcare systems. He emphasized that preparedness is not just about preventing outbreaks, but also about having the capacity to detect threats early and respond effectively. As Nigeria's national public health institute, the NCDC plays a crucial role in preventing, detecting, and responding to public health threats. Dr. Idris noted that the Centre works closely with state governments, sister agencies, and development partners to strengthen the country's health security architecture. Despite these efforts, persistent challenges remain, including coordination across sectors, data integration, logistics, and sustainable financing. The NCDC has made significant investments in emergency preparedness, including the implementation of the International Health Regulations (2005) Monitoring and Evaluation Framework and the adoption of the National Action Plan for Health Security 2.0. However, more needs to be done to address the root causes of the outbreak and ensure that our healthcare systems are equipped to respond effectively. As we move forward, it is essential that we prioritize the health and well-being of Nigerians. This requires a coordinated effort from all stakeholders, including governments, healthcare providers, and the private sector. By working together, we can strengthen our health security architecture, improve our preparedness and response systems, and ultimately save lives. The time to act is now. We must spread the word about the dangers of communicable diseases and the need for collective action to contain their spread. By doing so, we can build a healthier, safer, and more resilient Nigeria for all.