LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- Nigeria has intensified its Ebola preparedness efforts with the launch of a presidential communication committee, even as authorities assure citizens that the country remains free of the virus amid a deadly outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The Federal Government has assured Nigerians that there is currently no confirmed case of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in the country, as authorities strengthen preparedness measures against possible outbreaks.
The Minister of Information, Mohammed Idris, gave the assurance during the inauguration of the Communication Sub-Committee of the Presidential Task Force on Ebola Virus Preparedness and Emerging Public Health Threats in Abuja.
The committee was established to improve public communication, coordinate awareness efforts and support Nigeria’s emergency response plans amid renewed concerns over Ebola outbreaks in parts of Africa.
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Idris said Nigeria remains free from Ebola but warned that infectious diseases can cross borders, making continuous monitoring and preparedness necessary.
“Let me reassure Nigerians that there is currently no confirmed case of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Nigeria.
However, recent developments elsewhere in Africa remind us that infectious diseases know no borders,” the minister said.
His statement comes as the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) continues to battle an Ebola outbreak caused by the Bundibugyo strain of the virus.
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The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that the outbreak has claimed about 600 lives, with fatalities increasing rapidly in recent days.
The rising cases in the DRC, alongside imported infections recorded in Uganda, have led to increased surveillance efforts across the region as health authorities work to prevent further spread.
The minister commended President Bola Tinubu for establishing the Presidential Task Force, describing the move as a proactive step towards improving coordination, early detection and timely response to emerging health threats.
He urged Nigerians to remain calm while relying on verified information from health authorities, noting that public awareness remains an important part of preventing the spread of infectious diseases.
Ultimately, Nigeria’s health agencies continue to maintain surveillance systems and preparedness plans to ensure any potential public health threat is detected and managed quickly.
