The Nigerian government is taking significant measures to contain the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) following a confirmed case in the Federal Capital Territory. Festus Keyamo, the Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, has ordered the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) to place a no-fly restriction on 46 people identified as contacts of the patient.
This announcement follows a virtual meeting with Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, who provided a list consisting of 44 individuals who were in contact with the affected female patient, as well as two domestic staff members.
The 21-day travel ban aims to mitigate the risk of further virus transmission, aligning with the incubation period for Ebola. Keyamo highlighted that the aviation authorities should act immediately to ensure these individuals are barred from air travel during this crucial timeframe.
In his statement, Keyamo indicated that he has also directed the Nigeria Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) to promptly inform both local and international airlines about the restriction. Additionally, he emphasized the need for enhanced health surveillance and Ebola response measures at international airports, including thorough health screenings and monitoring of travel histories.
As part of the heightened response protocol, the FAAN has implemented comprehensive health check measures, including temperature screenings and digital health declarations, while coordinating closely with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and other relevant agencies.
The details surrounding the affected patient—including her identity and the hospital location—have not been disclosed, and it remains unclear whether the infection was contracted within Nigeria. However, the government has mobilized its resources to tackle potential health threats.
Officials stress that there is no cause for panic but urge the public to remain vigilant and cooperative with health authorities. They encourage citizens to rely on verified information to avoid the spread of misinformation.
