The Director-General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), Dr Jide Idris, has revealed that Nigeria’s current preparedness for a potential Ebola outbreak stands at about 59%, as health authorities step up surveillance and response measures amid concerns over regional spread of the virus.
Speaking in an interview with ARISE NEWS on Monday, Idris explained that a recent national assessment exposed several gaps in the country’s readiness, particularly at points of entry such as airports and land borders, which remain critical in preventing importation of infectious diseases.
He said a dynamic risk assessment was conducted to evaluate Nigeria’s preparedness level and identify areas that require urgent improvement. According to him, the Federal Ministry of Health has already issued protocols to relevant agencies to strengthen monitoring of international arrivals and improve control of incoming travellers.
Idris noted that while airport surveillance is being strengthened, Nigeria’s porous land borders remain a major concern, as many travellers enter the country by road. He warned that this mode of entry poses significant monitoring challenges and increases the risk of disease importation.
Recalling Nigeria’s experience with the 2014 Ebola outbreak, the NCDC boss said lessons from that period continue to guide current preparedness efforts. He stressed the importance of early detection, isolation of suspected cases, contact tracing, laboratory diagnosis, and strict adherence to infection prevention measures.
He added that Nigeria is currently responding to about seven to eight active disease outbreaks, including cholera and Lassa fever, while also working to improve laboratory capacity, train health workers, and strengthen public awareness. Idris further urged state governments to take greater responsibility in disease prevention and outbreak response, noting that effective control requires coordinated action across all levels of government.
Elijah Adeyemi
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