The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has raised fresh concern over the possibility of Ebola entering the country, officially classifying the risk of importing the Bundibugyo strain of the virus as high.
Despite this warning, the agency has made it clear that no case of Ebola has been confirmed in Nigeria at this time. However, authorities are not taking chances. With ongoing outbreaks in parts of Africa and the reality of constant cross-border movement, the country is strengthening its defenses to prevent any potential outbreak.
This development reflects a broader effort to stay ahead of a virus that has historically proven deadly when not contained early.
Why the Risk Level Is Considered High
The NCDC’s position is based on a detailed national risk assessment carried out in response to ongoing Ebola outbreaks in other African countries. According to data from the World Health Organization, the Democratic Republic of Congo is currently battling its 17th Ebola outbreak, with 344 confirmed cases and at least 60 deaths recorded across three provinces.
Uganda has also reported infections, including a case involving a traveler who passed through the United Arab Emirates before entering the country.
Health experts say several factors are increasing Nigeria’s vulnerability. One major issue is that early Ebola symptoms often resemble common illnesses such as malaria and Lassa fever. Patients may initially present with fever, headache, fatigue, or body pain, which can easily lead to misdiagnosis and delayed response.
Another concern is the high level of movement across borders. Nigeria serves as a major hub for travel and trade in Africa, with frequent international flights and busy land crossings. This makes it difficult to completely eliminate the risk of an infected person entering the country.
In addition, the vast and often poorly monitored land borders present a serious challenge. Tracking every entry point is not always feasible, which increases the likelihood of undetected movement.
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Measures Being Taken to Strengthen Preparedness
In response to these risks, the NCDC has activated a comprehensive preparedness strategy aimed at early detection and rapid containment.
At the country’s entry points, including airports, seaports, and land borders, surveillance has been intensified. Travelers are being screened more carefully, and health officials are on alert to identify anyone showing possible symptoms.
Laboratories across the country are also being equipped to respond quickly. Testing capacity has been strengthened to ensure that Ebola can be distinguished from other similar diseases without delay. This is critical because timely diagnosis can prevent further spread.
The NCDC has also directed all state governments and the Federal Capital Territory to activate their emergency response systems. Local preparedness is essential, since outbreaks are best contained at the community level before they escalate.
Healthcare workers have received specific guidance as well. Doctors, nurses, and other frontline personnel are being encouraged to remain vigilant, especially when dealing with patients who show symptoms that could easily be mistaken for malaria. Emphasis is being placed on reviewing travel histories and maintaining strict infection prevention and control measures at all times.
Concerns Over Funding and Readiness
While these steps are important, officials have acknowledged that the country is not fully prepared. NCDC Director General Dr. Jide Idris stated that Nigeria’s overall readiness currently stands at about 59 percent.
He explained that although progress has been made, there is still a significant gap that needs to be addressed to ensure full nationwide preparedness.
Lawmakers have also raised serious concerns about funding. During a session in the House of Representatives, it was revealed that the NCDC reportedly received no operational funding in 2025 and is still awaiting the release of approved budget allocations.
This shortage has already begun to affect operations. Key projects such as the construction of isolation and treatment centers have slowed down. There are also reports of unpaid service providers, limited laboratory supplies, and pressure on biosecurity infrastructure. Intensive care resources remain stretched as well.
In response, the House has urged the Federal Government to urgently release the necessary funds to prevent the situation from worsening.
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Lessons From the 2014 Ebola Incident
Nigeria’s cautious approach is influenced by its past experience with Ebola. In 2014, the country faced a serious threat when an infected traveler arrived in Lagos from Liberia.
The situation could have escalated into a major outbreak, but it was contained largely due to the quick thinking and bravery of Dr. Ameyo Stella Adadevoh and her team. She identified the risk early, insisted on isolating the patient despite external pressure, and ultimately helped prevent widespread transmission.
Her actions are still regarded as a defining moment in Nigeria’s public health history, and current efforts are built around maintaining that same level of alertness.
What the Public Needs to Do
Health authorities are advising Nigerians to stay calm while remaining alert. Ebola spreads through direct contact with bodily fluids such as blood, saliva, sweat, or vomit from an infected person or animal.
To reduce risk, the public is encouraged to maintain good hygiene by washing hands regularly with soap and water or using hand sanitizers.
Anyone experiencing symptoms such as sudden fever, severe headache, muscle pain, vomiting, or unusual bleeding should seek medical care immediately rather than attempting self-treatment. Early reporting can save lives and prevent wider spread.
People are also advised to be mindful of recent travel histories, especially for individuals arriving from regions currently affected by Ebola.
Finally, the NCDC has warned against spreading misinformation. False claims and unverified remedies can create unnecessary panic and hinder response efforts. Official updates should only be obtained from trusted sources such as the NCDC and the Federal Ministry of Health.
For assistance or to report a suspected case, the NCDC can be reached through its toll-free line 6232 or via WhatsApp at +234 708 711 0839.
As Nigeria strengthens its defenses, the message from health authorities remains clear. Preparedness, vigilance, and public cooperation are essential to keeping the country safe.
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