ABUJA, NIGERIA — Following the confirmation of an imported case of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in the country, the Federal Government has issued an urgent directive ordering health facilities nationwide to prepare isolation centres, step up vigilance, and stock personal protective equipment (PPE).
The directive, communicated through the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, mandates all public and private tertiary, secondary, and primary healthcare institutions to immediately establish emergency response protocols to ensure the early detection, swift isolation, and proper management of suspected cases.
A Nation on High Alert
The sudden mobilization follows genomic validation of the Bundibugyo strain of the virus in an imported index case detected within the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. Health authorities under the leadership of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, have moved to insulate the nation’s health system from potential cross-contamination.
Medical authorities have confirmed institutional compliance, noting that facilities nationwide are actively preparing isolation units and securing protective gear for personnel.
Pressure on Lagging States
While 21 states have ramped up their preparedness, the Federal Government has cautioned 15 lagging states to accelerate their epidemic response plans, with the National Economic Council briefed to oversee compliance. Meanwhile, groups like NARD and MDCAN have instructed members to maintain a high index of suspicion and strictly avoid examining potential cases without full PPE.
Border Curbs and Financial Backing
The NCDC and Port Health Services have strengthened screening at all borders to curb transmission, supported by a ₦10 billion emergency fund approved by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Contact tracing is ongoing, and the public is advised to maintain hygiene and report symptoms.
