Health
FG orders tighter Ebola screening at Nigeria’s entry points
By Gilbert Ekugbe
The Federal Government has directed ministries, departments and agencies, health institutions and other relevant stakeholders to ensure strict compliance with approved Ebola Virus Disease entry protocols at all designated points of entry into Nigeria.
The directive followed concerns raised by the Office of the National Security Adviser over reported non-compliance with the approved protocols, according to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
The ministry conveyed the directive in a circular dated October 22, 2026, signed by the Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom S., on behalf of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate.
The ministry emphasised the need for consistent enforcement of the protocols to reduce the risk of cross-border transmission and protect public health and national security.
It called for “consistent, effective and non-discriminatory enforcement of the measures” across all designated points of entry into the country.
Under the directive, relevant institutions are required to ensure strict adherence to prescribed screening procedures, health declaration requirements, surveillance measures and other applicable entry protocols.
The government also called for stronger coordination, communication and information-sharing among responsible agencies to improve surveillance, facilitate early detection and ensure prompt responses to potential public health threats.
To strengthen compliance and accountability, the ministry directed concerned institutions to promptly document and report actual or attempted breaches of the approved protocols through established channels.
The institutions were also instructed to provide necessary support to enforcement officials and establish effective monitoring mechanisms to identify and address lapses.
The circular further stressed that personnel responsible for enforcing the protocols must be allowed to discharge their duties professionally and without undue interference.
“The Ministry has directed the immediate and widespread dissemination of the circular to relevant departments, units, field offices and personnel to ensure that all concerned institutions understand their responsibilities and take prompt action to address identified lapses,” the statement said.
The ministry urged all relevant institutions to accord the directive the highest priority and sustain compliance with the approved EVD entry protocols.
It said, “Effective implementation, inter-agency coordination and accountability remain essential to strengthening Nigeria’s preparedness against cross-border health threats and safeguarding the health and safety of the population.”
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