Minna124 cases, 17 deaths over seven months, health commissioner Murtala Bagana said.
That is a 14% fatality rate, above the 5-10% typical when antitoxin arrives on time.
Diphtheria resurfaces where childhood vaccination coverage has slipped, making this a delayed immunisation audit.
Bagana is urging parents in Bida, Suleja and Shiroro to vaccinate children as cases continue.
Sources: Premium Times Nigeria