President Bola Tinubu has approved the creation of a Presidential Task Force on Ebola Preparedness and Emerging Public Health Threats. He also released N10 billion to strengthen the readiness of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC).

The move comes as health officials monitor the spread of the Bundibugyo strain of Ebola. The outbreak began in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and has raised concerns across the region. Experts fear the virus could spread into neighbouring countries, including Uganda. Government Steps Up Preparedness

The new task force will lead Nigeria’s efforts to prevent and respond to possible Ebola cases. It will coordinate disease surveillance and improve border health security. The team will also work with state governments and health agencies to ensure a quick response to any outbreak.

Authorities say the task force will focus on early detection, rapid response, and public awareness. These measures aim to reduce the risk of transmission and protect public health.

N10bn Fund to Strengthen Response

The emergency funding will support several key activities. The NCDC plans to buy medical supplies and protective equipment for healthcare workers. The agency will also upgrade laboratory facilities and expand disease monitoring systems.

Part of the fund will support training programmes for health workers. It will also help finance public education campaigns on Ebola prevention and safety measures.

No Confirmed Cases in Nigeria

Health authorities say Nigeria has not recorded any confirmed Ebola cases. Despite this, officials believe the country must remain alert because of increased travel within the region.

The NCDC has intensified monitoring at airports, seaports, and land borders. Health workers across the country have also been instructed to watch for symptoms and report suspected cases promptly.

Lessons From the 2014 Outbreak

Nigeria successfully contained an Ebola outbreak in 2014. Health experts often cite that response as one of the country’s major public health achievements.

Officials say they will apply lessons from that experience to current preparedness efforts. They believe early action can help prevent the virus from gaining a foothold in the country.

The federal government has urged Nigerians to remain calm and follow information from official health authorities. Citizens should also report any suspected symptoms to the nearest healthcare facility.