FG Ramps Up Ebola Watch as Virus Spreads in Africa

Illustrative picture of health personnel 

.... Health Ministry activates border checks, surveillance to block Bundibugyo strain, in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening national health security and preventing cross-border disease transmission, heightened preparedness measures have been activated nationwide.”

The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has heightened Nigeria’s Ebola preparedness, activating stricter national surveillance and border health measures to guard against the possible importation of Bundibugyo ebolavirus disease, BEBOV.

In a press release on Monday, June 2, 2026, the Ministry said the move follows reports of BEBOV cases in parts of the East and Central African region. 

“The Ministry wishes to reassure Nigerians that there is presently no confirmed case of Ebola Virus Disease in Nigeria,” the statement read. “However, in line with the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening national health security and preventing cross-border disease transmission, heightened preparedness measures have been activated nationwide.”

As part of ongoing response readiness efforts, official preparedness protocols have been scaled up. This includes intensified surveillance at points of entry, enhanced screening of travelers, and alert systems for health facilities nationwide.

The Ministry stressed that the measures are preventive, not reactive. Officials are working with state governments, port health authorities, and international partners to ensure early detection, rapid response, and public awareness if any suspected case emerges.

Health authorities urged Nigerians to remain calm but vigilant, report symptoms such as fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and unexplained bleeding to the nearest health facility, and rely on verified information from the Ministry and NCDC.

With memories of the 2014 Ebola outbreak still fresh, the FG says it is taking no chances as it strengthens national health security against cross-border threats.