FG Activates Nationwide Ebola Preparedness Plan
The Federal Government has strengthened health screening procedures at airports, seaports and land borders across Nigeria.
The action follows concerns over the ongoing outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus disease in parts of East and Central Africa. As a result, health authorities have activated precautionary measures to prevent the virus from entering the country.
In a statement released on Tuesday, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare confirmed that Nigeria has not recorded any case of Ebola.
However, the ministry explained that proactive measures have become necessary to protect public health and strengthen national health security.
Authorities Intensify Screening at Entry Points
Health officials have increased surveillance at all designated points of entry nationwide.
Under the new measures, travellers will undergo temperature checks using infrared thermal scanners and handheld thermometers. In addition, officials will assess travel history and review health declaration forms.
Furthermore, authorities will conduct detailed risk assessments to identify potential health threats.
Travellers who display symptoms linked to Ebola or other viral haemorrhagic fevers will undergo secondary screening. They may also face isolation and referral for further medical evaluation when necessary.
Surveillance Systems Receive Major Boost
Meanwhile, the government has expanded disease surveillance activities across the country.
The ministry disclosed that Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response operations have been strengthened nationwide. Similarly, authorities have enhanced community-based and event-based surveillance networks.
Consequently, health officials expect faster detection and reporting of suspected cases.
The government has also activated Public Health Emergency Operations Centres. In addition, Rapid Response Teams at national and state levels remain on standby.
Hospitals Ordered to Strengthen Emergency Response
Healthcare facilities across the country have received fresh directives to improve preparedness.
According to the ministry, hospitals and clinics must strengthen infection prevention measures and improve triage systems.
Furthermore, medical personnel must isolate suspected cases quickly and follow established reporting protocols without delay.
Health authorities believe stronger preparedness in hospitals will improve response capacity if a suspected case emerges.
Ministry Urges Nigerians to Remain Calm
Despite the heightened alert, the Federal Government has urged citizens not to panic.
Instead, Nigerians should maintain proper hand hygiene and avoid direct contact with bodily fluids from sick individuals.
The ministry also advised residents to avoid handling dead animals or bushmeat from unknown sources.
Additionally, citizens should report unusual illnesses or unexplained deaths to health authorities immediately.
Reps Raise Alarm Over NCDC Funding Challenges
Meanwhile, the House of Representatives has expressed concern over the financial difficulties facing the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control.
The concern emerged during the consideration of a motion sponsored by the member representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency, Amobi Ogah.
While presenting the motion, Ogah cited the recent Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and stressed the need for stronger preparedness in Nigeria.
However, he questioned the NCDC’s ability to respond effectively due to funding constraints.
According to him, the agency received no operational funding in 2025 and has not accessed capital releases tied to its 2026 budget allocation.
Lawmaker Highlights Impact of Funding Gap
Ogah argued that inadequate funding has weakened critical public health functions.
As a result, the NCDC now faces challenges in outbreak response, laboratory operations, surveillance activities and emergency preparedness.
He also revealed that shortages of laboratory reagents, diagnostic materials and other essential supplies have affected operations.
Furthermore, several laboratory and treatment centre projects have stalled due to financial limitations.
House Demands Immediate Government Action
Following the debate, lawmakers urged the Federal Government to release approved funds meant for the NCDC without delay.
They argued that adequate funding would help the agency sustain essential operations and improve outbreak preparedness.
In addition, the House called on port health authorities to intensify border surveillance and screening measures.
Lawmakers also directed the Committee on Infectious Diseases to monitor the utilisation of released funds and provide regular updates.
Although Nigeria successfully contained the 2014 Ebola outbreak, health experts continue to emphasise the importance of sustained investment in surveillance systems, laboratory networks and emergency response infrastructure.
