By Fatima Saka
The Federal Government has heightened national preparedness against a potential Ebola outbreak, activating stringent surveillance and border health measures following reports of the Bundibugyo ebolavirus disease (BEBOV) in parts of East and Central Africa.
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, in a statement on Tuesday, reassured Nigerians that no case of Ebola Virus Disease has been recorded in the country. However, it stressed that proactive steps are being taken to prevent cross-border transmission and strengthen Nigeria’s health security architecture.
Central to the government’s response is the immediate reinforcement of protocols at Points of Entry (PoE), including airports, seaports, and land borders. Authorities have commenced mandatory temperature screening for all inbound travelers using infrared thermal scanners, alongside compulsory health declaration forms and travel history assessments.
Travelers identified with symptoms consistent with viral haemorrhagic fevers are to undergo secondary screening, with provisions in place for isolation and prompt referral. The Ministry also confirmed enhanced coordination with immigration, aviation, and maritime authorities to ensure strict compliance.
Beyond border controls, the government has intensified nationwide disease surveillance through the Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) system. This includes expanded community-based monitoring, active tracking of public health alerts, and continuous epidemiological risk assessments.
Laboratory systems and emergency response structures have also been placed on high alert. Public Health Emergency Operations Centres (PHEOCs) have been activated, while Rapid Response Teams are on standby across federal and state levels. Health facilities have been directed to strengthen infection prevention and control measures, improve triage systems, and promptly isolate suspected cases.
Healthcare workers and frontline personnel are undergoing continuous sensitization and preparedness training to ensure rapid detection and response capability.
The Ministry urged Nigerians to remain calm and avoid spreading misinformation, emphasizing that all official updates will be communicated through recognized public health channels.
Citizens were advised to maintain strict hygiene practices, including regular handwashing, avoiding contact with bodily fluids of symptomatic individuals, and steering clear of bushmeat or dead animals from unknown sources. The public is also encouraged to report any unusual illness or sudden deaths to the nearest health facility.
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“All Ebola preparedness advisories, protocols, and technical guidance documents have been made available on the Ministry’s official website to support awareness and compliance,” the statement added.
The government reaffirmed its commitment to closely monitor developments and respond swiftly to any emerging threat.
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