The Federal Government of Nigeria has intensified its national preparedness and response measures to safeguard the country against the potential introduction of the Bundibugyo ebolavirus disease (BEBOV). This proactive move follows recent reports of outbreaks in parts of the East and Central African regions.
In a press statement issued on Tuesday, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare confirmed that there is currently no confirmed case of Ebola Virus Disease in Nigeria. However, the government has chosen to preemptively activate nationwide safety protocols to reinforce national health security and prevent cross-border disease transmission.
Strict Controls Enforced at Nigerian Borders
To mitigate the risk of importation, the ministry has mandated strict border control and Point of Entry (PoE) protocols across all international airports, seaports, and land borders. Arriving travelers will now undergo universal temperature screening using non-invasive infrared thermal scanners and handheld thermometers.
Additionally, inbound passengers are required to complete mandatory Health Declaration Forms and undergo comprehensive travel history assessments. Frontline officials have established secondary screening, isolation, and referral mechanisms to quickly isolate travelers presenting symptoms consistent with viral haemorrhagic fevers.
Nationwide Surveillance and Diagnostic Readiness
The government has also scaled up its Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) activities across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory. Public health teams are actively tracking and verifying public health alerts while maintaining close coordination with regional and international health partners.
To ensure rapid response capabilities, the country’s Public Health Emergency Operations Centres (PHEOCs) have been activated, with Rapid Response Teams placed on high alert. Healthcare facilities nationwide have been instructed to maintain a high index of suspicion, strengthen their triage systems, and enforce strict Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures.
Government Issues Public Safety Call
The health ministry has urged citizens to remain calm and dismiss unverified rumors, advising the public to rely strictly on official updates. Nigerians are encouraged to maintain rigorous hand hygiene, avoid contact with the bodily fluids of sick individuals, and stay away from bushmeat or dead animals from unknown sources.
“The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has intensified national preparedness and response measures to safeguard Nigeria against the possible introduction of the Bundibugyo ebolavirus disease,” stated Ado Bako, the Assistant Director of Press and Public Relations. “The Ministry wishes to reassure Nigerians that there is presently no confirmed case of Ebola Virus Disease in Nigeria.”
Official guidelines, preparedness protocols, and technical advisories have been uploaded to the ministry’s website at www.health.gov.ng for public and institutional compliance.
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