The Federal Government has provided an update on the confirmed Ebola Virus Disease case in the Federal Capital Territory, reporting that genomic analysis shows the virus identified in Nigeria is genetically related to the virus found in a case in Kenya.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, said the findings provide important scientific information, but stressed that further investigation is required to establish whether the two cases are epidemiologically linked, noting that there is no evidence so far that the Kenyan index case travelled to Nigeria.
The genomic analysis was carried out by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention and the Institute of Genomics and Global Health at Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State, led by Professor Christian Happi, with Pate commending both institutions for their speed and scientific rigour.
Pate reiterated that Nigeria still has only one confirmed case, adding that the patient is showing signs of recovery, while identified contacts remain under active monitoring, with some having tested negative and results for others still pending.
He said the government is strengthening surveillance, laboratory capacity, case management, risk communication and infection prevention and control, while healthcare facilities have been reminded to promptly identify and report suspected cases to public health authorities.
The Director General of the NCDC, Dr Jide Idris, announced that the agency will begin issuing short daily updates to the public from October 24, 2026, to keep Nigerians informed as the situation evolves.
Pate urged Nigerians to remain calm and vigilant, follow recommended safety precautions and avoid spreading unverified reports, explaining that Ebola is not transmitted through the air but through direct contact with the body fluids of an infected person.
He advised the public to get updates only from recognised health authorities, including the NCDC, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the World Health Organization and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to containing the outbreak, protecting healthcare workers and preventing further transmission, while calling for continued cooperation from the public and all stakeholders.
By Asiwaju Adekunle Saheed
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