The Federal Government has ordered the strict enforcement of Ebola screening protocols at Nigeria’s designated entry points following reports of breaches of approved measures aimed at preventing the importation and spread of the disease.
The directive, issued by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in a circular dated October 22, 2026, also required relevant ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) to strengthen surveillance, information-sharing and accountability mechanisms.
The development followed concerns raised by the Office of the National Security Adviser over reported non-compliance with the government’s Ebola entry protocols.
The circular, with reference number PS/FMOH/08/VIII/48, was signed by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollum, on behalf of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate.
In a statement issued in Abuja, the ministry stressed the need for consistent, effective and non-discriminatory enforcement of the measures to protect public health and national security.
It directed relevant institutions to ensure compliance with prescribed Ebola screening procedures, health declarations, surveillance requirements and other applicable entry protocols.
The ministry also called for improved coordination and communication among agencies to facilitate early detection and a prompt response to potential public health threats.
It further directed relevant agencies to document and report any actual or attempted breach of the approved protocols through established channels.
To ensure compliance, the ministry called on institutions to provide the necessary support to officials responsible for enforcing the measures and establish effective monitoring and accountability mechanisms.
It stressed that personnel assigned to enforce the protocols must be allowed to discharge their responsibilities professionally and without undue interference.
The directive comes amid heightened concern over Nigeria’s preparedness following the confirmation of an imported Ebola case in the Federal Capital Territory.
Health authorities have identified 44 contacts linked to the infected woman, who travelled to Nigeria from Uganda, and activated measures to prevent further transmission.
The government has also intensified surveillance at airports and other points of entry as part of efforts to contain the infection and prevent additional imported cases.
The ministry said the latest directive was intended to address identified lapses and strengthen the implementation of measures designed to prevent the importation and spread of Ebola.
It consequently ordered the immediate and widespread circulation of the advisory to relevant departments, units, field offices and personnel to ensure that officials understand their responsibilities.
All relevant MDAs were urged to accord the directive the highest priority, address identified shortcomings promptly and maintain strict adherence to approved protocols.
The ministry maintained that effective implementation of the measures remained essential to safeguarding public health and national security.