The Niger State Government has heightened its public health surveillance and placed its Public Health Emergency Operations Centre on alert following the confirmation of an Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) case in Abuja.
The state Commissioner for Health, Dr Murtala Muhammad Bagana, disclosed this in a statement on Wednesday, stressing that no Ebola case had been detected in Niger State.
He said the precautionary measures were necessary because of frequent movement between Niger State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), activities around Minna International Airport and the state’s international border with the Republic of Benin.
The Federal Government announced on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, that laboratory tests had confirmed an Ebola infection in a woman who recently arrived in Nigeria from Uganda. The patient is receiving medical care in isolation, while health authorities have reportedly identified 44 close contacts for monitoring and follow-up.
Bagana said the Niger State Government was coordinating its preparedness efforts with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), the World Health Organization (WHO), local government health authorities and other development partners.
As part of the response, public and private healthcare facilities have been directed to report suspected cases immediately. Disease Surveillance and Notification Officers (DSNOs) and local government health teams are also strengthening surveillance, reporting and investigation activities.
The Ministry of Health is reviewing arrangements for the safe transportation and isolation of suspected cases while reinforcing infection prevention and control measures. These include the proper use of protective equipment and the safe handling of clinical waste.
The commissioner urged residents to remain calm and observe recommended hygiene practices, including regular handwashing with soap and water or the use of alcohol-based hand sanitisers.
Residents were also advised to avoid direct contact with the blood and other body fluids of anyone suspected of having Ebola.
Symptoms associated with the disease may include fever, severe weakness, headache, muscle pain, vomiting and diarrhoea. Unexplained bleeding may also occur in some cases.
Anyone who develops concerning symptoms after possible exposure has been advised to avoid close contact with others and telephone public health authorities for guidance before visiting a healthcare facility.
Bagana further urged anyone who suspects they may have been exposed to seek advice promptly, even if they feel well. He warned against spreading unverified information or stigmatising people undergoing medical assessment.
The ministry emphasised that living in or travelling to Niger State does not, by itself, mean a person has been exposed to Ebola.
Residents can report suspected cases through the following contacts provided by the state government:
- Director of Public Health: 0703 458 3079
- State Epidemiologist: 0807 721 3070
- State Disease Surveillance and Notification Officer: 0807 529 1989
- NCDC national toll-free helpline: 6232
Bagana reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to protecting residents, healthcare workers and visitors, urging the public to follow verified guidance from recognised health authorities as surveillance and preparedness efforts continue.
How did this story make you feel?
Join the conversation
Share a thoughtful response. Submissions may be reviewed before appearing.
