Ebola: FG orders strict screening at all entry points over reported protocol breaches

By Kazeem Ugbodaga

The Federal Government has directed ministries, government agencies, health institutions and other relevant stakeholders to strictly enforce approved Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) entry protocols at all designated points of entry into Nigeria.

The directive, issued by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, follows concerns raised by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) over reported non-compliance with the approved protocols.

In a press release dated October 23, 2026, the ministry said the directive was conveyed through Circular No. PS/FMOH/08/VIII/48, dated October 22 and signed by the Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom, on behalf of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate.

The ministry said the measures were intended to ensure consistent, effective and non-discriminatory enforcement of entry procedures to reduce the risk of cross-border transmission and protect public health and national security.

Under the directive, relevant institutions are required to ensure strict compliance with prescribed screening procedures, health declaration requirements, surveillance measures and other applicable entry protocols.

The ministry 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 accountability, the government directed concerned institutions to promptly document and report actual or attempted breaches of the approved protocols through established channels.

The institutions are also required to provide necessary support to enforcement officials and establish effective monitoring mechanisms to identify and address lapses in the implementation of the measures.

The ministry further stressed that personnel responsible for enforcing the protocols must be allowed to carry out their duties professionally and without undue interference.

It directed the immediate and widespread circulation of the circular to relevant departments, units, field offices and personnel to ensure that all concerned institutions understand their responsibilities and promptly address identified shortcomings.

The ministry urged all relevant institutions to treat the directive as a priority and maintain compliance with the approved entry protocols.

It said effective implementation, inter-agency coordination and accountability were essential to strengthening Nigeria’s preparedness against cross-border health threats and safeguarding the population.

The directive comes amid heightened public health vigilance following Nigeria’s confirmation of an Ebola case. The government has continued to emphasise surveillance and other preventive measures to limit the risk of further transmission.