The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has reassured Nigerians that there are currently no confirmed cases of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in the country.
Dr. Jide Idris, Director-General of the NCDC, delivered the assurance during a press briefing in Lagos on Friday. The session aimed to update the public on Nigeria’s preparedness following the outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda.
According to Dr. Idris, the NCDC has intensified nationwide surveillance and readiness measures to quickly detect, investigate, and contain any potential Ebola importation. He emphasized that although the risk of Ebola introduction into Nigeria is classified as “high” due to cross-border movements and regional transmission, the country remains vigilant.
“The symptoms of Ebola can resemble other diseases like malaria and Lassa fever, which is why early detection, isolation, and proper infection control are critical,” Idris explained. He urged Nigerians to continue their daily routines while relying only on credible sources for information and promptly reporting unusual illnesses.
Dr. Idris highlighted several preparedness milestones achieved by the NCDC, including readiness assessments completed in 549 health facilities across 32 states and the Federal Capital Territory. In addition, 17 designated treatment centers were evaluated for screening capacity, isolation readiness, infection prevention, and healthcare worker protection.
While specific training for the Bundibugyo strain has not yet been mapped out, Dr. Idris reminded health workers that adherence to Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) usage and Infection Prevention and Control (IPC) measures remains essential.
The NCDC is also maintaining strict surveillance at all national entry points, working closely with border authorities to prevent Ebola transmission into Nigeria. Dr. Idris called on state governments, healthcare facilities, communities, and development partners to actively support preparedness efforts, noting that past success in containing Ebola in 2014 relied on strong leadership, rapid response, and public trust.
“If Ebola enters Nigeria, we are confident in our capacity to contain it,” he added.
