The Federal Government has disclosed that genomic analysis of the confirmed Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) case in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) shows that the virus is genetically related to one identified in a case in Kenya, while stressing that further investigations are needed to determine whether the two cases are epidemiologically linked.
The update was contained in a press release signed by Ado Bako, Assistant Director, Information and Public Relations, of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare on October 23, 2026, in Abuja.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, said the findings provide important scientific information but do not establish a direct transmission link between the cases.
The genomic analysis was conducted by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and the Institute of Genomics and Global Health (IGH) at Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State, led by Professor Christian Happi.
Prof. Pate commended both institutions for their speed and scientific rigour, while reiterating that genetic relatedness between viruses does not, in itself, establish a direct transmission link between cases.
Contacts Remain Under Monitoring
The minister disclosed that identified contacts of the confirmed case remain under active monitoring, with some testing negative while results for others are still pending.
He said the Federal Government was strengthening surveillance, laboratory capacity, case management, risk communication, and infection prevention and control as part of efforts to contain the outbreak.
Healthcare facilities have also been reminded to promptly identify and report suspected cases to public health authorities.
According to the statement, additional training and sensitisation for healthcare workers will support the effective implementation of response protocols.
NCDC to Issue Daily Ebola Updates
In a related development, the Director General of the NCDC announced that the agency would begin issuing short daily updates to the public from October 24, 2026.
The updates, according to the ministry, will provide regular information as the situation evolves and will be issued in line with the agency’s public health guidelines.
The move is expected to provide the public with regular information on the outbreak and the ongoing response.
FG Warns Against Ebola Misinformation
Prof. Pate urged Nigerians to remain calm and vigilant, observe recommended safety precautions, follow official public health guidance, and avoid spreading misinformation or unverified reports.
He advised the public to obtain updates from recognised health authorities, including the NCDC, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, World Health Organization (WHO), and Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC).
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to containing the outbreak, protecting healthcare workers, and preventing further transmission, while calling for continued cooperation from the public and relevant stakeholders.
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