By Raymond Ken-Mbata
The Federal Government has confirmed a case of Ebola disease in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, following laboratory confirmation on October 20, 2026.
The patient, a woman who recently arrived in Nigeria on an international flight from Uganda, was admitted to a private hospital in the FCT, where she received treatment for several days before the disease was confirmed. She is currently in isolation and receiving medical care.
The government said contact tracing had commenced, with 44 close contacts identified so far. Public health officials are working to identify and monitor people who may have been exposed to the infection, including healthcare workers, patients, caregivers and travel contacts.
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), the FCT Health Services Secretariat and other relevant authorities are collaborating to contain the infection and prevent further spread. The hospital where the patient received treatment is also receiving support to strengthen infection prevention and control measures.
The government has urged public and private healthcare facilities across the country to remain on high alert, ensure early identification and isolation of suspected cases, and promptly report any suspected infection to public health authorities.
Nigerians have also been advised to practise regular hand hygiene, avoid contact with the blood and other body fluids of suspected cases, and watch out for symptoms such as fever, severe weakness, headache, vomiting and diarrhoea. Anyone who suspects exposure has been advised to report it immediately, while people who develop symptoms should avoid close contact with others and seek guidance from public health authorities before visiting a healthcare facility.
The government reassured Nigerians that the country successfully contained Ebola in 2014 and has the public health experience and systems needed to respond to the current case. However, it stressed that early detection, prompt reporting and public cooperation remain essential to preventing further transmission.
The NCDC’s toll-free call centre is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Members of the public can call 6232 for information or to report a suspected case.
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