Ebola Alert Puts Nigeria On High Preparedness As NCDC Intensifies Surveillance
As regional health threats continue to test Africa’s emergency response systems, Nigerian health authorities have moved to strengthen surveillance and preparedness measures against the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD), despite the country recording no confirmed case linked to the current outbreak.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) disclosed this in an advisory issued on May 24, 2026, noting that the country remains on high alert following the World Health Organisation’s declaration of the Ebola outbreak in parts of Africa as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern.
According to the NCDC, a dynamic risk assessment conducted by the agency revealed that Nigeria faces a high risk of Ebola importation due to increased international travel, population movement, and the ongoing transmission of the disease in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda.
The agency stated that surveillance had been intensified nationwide, especially at border communities, transport hubs, and points of entry, while Rapid Response Teams and epidemiologists remain on standby for immediate deployment if necessary.
The advisory further noted that the National Emergency Operations Centre had been placed on alert mode, with healthcare facilities across the country directed to strengthen infection prevention and control measures, including early identification and isolation of suspected cases.
The NCDC also disclosed that laboratories within the national public health network have maintained testing capabilities for Ebola, while efforts are ongoing to improve sample transportation systems and emergency response logistics.
To counter misinformation, the agency said it had launched public awareness campaigns and distributed educational materials addressing myths and facts about the disease.
The Centre advised Nigerians to maintain proper hygiene, avoid contact with bodily fluids of sick persons, and promptly report unexplained illnesses or deaths to health authorities.
Healthcare workers were equally urged to maintain a high level of vigilance and strictly observe infection prevention protocols, including the appropriate use of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
The NCDC reiterated that Nigeria currently has no confirmed Ebola case associated with the ongoing regional outbreak but stressed that early reporting and responsible health-seeking behaviour remain critical in preventing possible transmission.
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