Health agency intensifies surveillance as outbreaks in Uganda and DR Congo heighten regional concerns.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has classified the risk of importing the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) into Nigeria as high, citing ongoing outbreaks in East Africa, increased international travel and porous borders.
Speaking at a media briefing in Lagos, NCDC Director-General, Jide Idris, said Nigeria has not recorded any confirmed Ebola case but warned that delayed detection remains a concern because Ebola symptoms often resemble those of malaria and Lassa Fever.
He disclosed that the agency has activated several preparedness measures, including enhanced surveillance at entry points, laboratory readiness, risk communication and emergency response coordination nationwide.
Idris urged state governments and healthcare workers to remain vigilant, promptly report suspected cases and ensure response structures are fully operational.
The warning comes as outbreaks continue in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda. According to the World Health Organization, the current outbreak in DR Congo has recorded 344 confirmed cases and 60 deaths, while Uganda has reported 15 cases, including one fatality.
The NCDC said it will continue working with state governments, healthcare institutions and international partners to prevent any potential outbreak in Nigeria.