Ebola Alert Intensifies as Nigeria Faces Elevated Importation Risk
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Last updated: May 26, 2026
Nigeria is on high alert for Ebola importation due to ongoing outbreaks in Central and East Africa. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has identified key risk areas and intensified surveillance measures nationwide.
- Nigeria faces a high risk of Ebola importation, stemming from active outbreaks in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda, increased international travel, and the uncertainty surrounding the full scope of these regional epidemics. The NCDC is specifically monitoring border communities, major transport hubs, densely populated states, and official Points of Entry.
- The NCDC Director-General, Dr. Jide Idris, confirmed that national preparedness measures are being scaled up, with the National Emergency Operations Centre on alert. While Nigeria has not reported cases linked to the current regional outbreak, surveillance is active due to the World Health Organisation’s (WHO) declaration of Ebola as a Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) and rising suspected infections in affected countries.
- Event-based surveillance and epidemic intelligence gathering have been intensified, including monitoring alerts and unusual health incidents for early detection. Travellers from affected countries are advised to monitor their health for 21 days and report symptoms like fever, weakness, vomiting, or unexplained bleeding.
- Tragically, three Red Cross volunteers in the DRC's eastern Ituri region, the outbreak's epicentre, are believed to have died from suspected Ebola infection while on humanitarian duty. Health experts also warn of infectiousness from the bodies of deceased patients, posing risks during burial practices.
- Continental health agencies, including the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (Africa CDC), have warned that the outbreak could spread to at least 10 other African countries if not contained. The Human Rights Writers Association of Nigeria (HURIWA) has called for a comprehensive National Ebola Prevention and Preparedness Framework, noting concerns about the lack of a detailed, structured plan comparable to the COVID-19 response.
