Don’t panic, no case of Ebola in Nigeria – FG assures Nigerians

The federal government has said there is no confirmed case of Ebola virus in Nigeria, urging Nigerians not to panic.

The minister of information and national orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, stated this on Thursday while addressing the media during the inaugural meeting of the communication sub committee of the Presidential Task Force on Ebola Virus in Abuja.

Idris, who is the chairman of the sub- committee said, “Let me reassure Nigerians that there is currently no confirmed case of Ebola Virus Disease in Nigeria. However, recent developments elsewhere in Africa remind us that infectious diseases know no borders.

“Our responsibility, therefore, is to remain vigilant while providing accurate information that reassures the public without creating fear or panic.”

The minister however, said
current Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo remains a matter of serious concern, adding that Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has assessed the risk of importation as high, given regional population movement.

“Latest reports indicate that the outbreak has resulted in approximately 600 confirmed deaths and over 1,700 confirmed cases, with suspected infections now being investigated beyond the initially affected provinces, underscoring the continuing risk of cross-border transmission.

” In Nigeria, however, I wish to reassure all citizens that there is still no confirmed case of Ebola Virus Disease. Nonetheless, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has assessed the risk of importation as high, given regional population movement and international travel.

” Consequently, surveillance has been strengthened at our points of entry, health facilities have been placed on heightened alert, and preparedness measures are being intensified across the country,” he said.

Speaking further, Idris said the federal has designed a robust communication plan to ensure that Nigerians are adequately sensitised on the virus irrespective of their educational background.

Idris said: “Communication is one of the most powerful tools in managing public health emergencies.

“Accurate, timely and science-based information saves lives, while misinformation and rumours can undermine public confidence and hinder effective response.

“Our responsibility is to ensure that government speaks with one clear and coordinated voice, guided by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), the country’s technical authority on disease prevention and control.

He said the committee approaches the task with confidence, having successfully contained the Ebola outbreak in 2014.

” That achievement was driven not only by effective medical response but also by strong leadership, coordinated action, robust surveillance, and sustained public communication. The lessons remain relevant today.

“Our assignment goes beyond issuing press statements. We must develop a comprehensive national risk communication strategy that is proactive, transparent and accessible to all Nigerians, regardless of language or location,” he said.