FG Raises Ebola Alert, Tightens Border Controls, And Boosts Emergency Response Systems

The Federal Government has intensified nationwide border screening, disease surveillance, and emergency response measures in a bid to prevent the possible importation of the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), which is currently circulating in parts of East and Central Africa.

According to a statement issued on Tuesday by the Assistant Director of Press and Public Relations at the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, Ado Bako, the government has activated strengthened preparedness protocols across the country. These include stricter health checks at airports, seaports, and land borders.

The Ministry explained that incoming travellers are now being subjected to enhanced screening processes, including temperature checks using infrared thermal scanners and handheld thermometers. In addition, health declaration forms, travel history verification, and risk-based assessments have been reinforced at all points of entry.

It further noted that isolation procedures, secondary screening, and referral systems have been upgraded for individuals showing symptoms consistent with viral haemorrhagic fevers. Coordination among immigration, aviation, maritime, and border security agencies has also been expanded to improve early detection and rapid response capabilities.

The renewed measures follow reported outbreaks of the Bundibugyo ebolavirus in parts of East and Central Africa, raising concerns over potential cross-border transmission. Despite the heightened alert, the Ministry reassured Nigerians that no confirmed case of Ebola Virus Disease has been recorded in the country.

As part of ongoing surveillance efforts, Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) systems have been strengthened nationwide, alongside expanded community-based monitoring and event-based reporting mechanisms. Public health alerts and suspected rumours are also being actively investigated, with continuous epidemiological assessments carried out in collaboration with regional and international health partners.

To further enhance preparedness, specimen collection and transportation systems for viral haemorrhagic diseases have been improved, while laboratory biosafety and biosecurity standards have been reinforced. Public Health Emergency Operations Centres remain on alert, with Rapid Response Teams at both national and sub-national levels placed on standby for immediate deployment if required.

Healthcare facilities have been directed to maintain a high level of vigilance, strengthen patient triage systems, promptly isolate suspected cases, and adhere strictly to reporting protocols. Medical personnel, surveillance officers, and frontline health workers are also undergoing continuous training, with infection prevention and control measures being reinforced across healthcare facilities nationwide.

The Ministry urged citizens to remain calm, avoid spreading misinformation, and rely solely on verified updates from official public health authorities. It also advised the public to maintain proper hand hygiene, avoid contact with bodily fluids of symptomatic individuals, refrain from handling dead animals or bushmeat from unknown sources, and promptly report any unusual illnesses or deaths to the nearest health facility.

The Ministry assured Nigerians that it will continue to closely monitor the situation and provide timely updates as developments unfold.