The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has urged Nigerians to remain calm, vigilant and adhere strictly to official public-health advice following the reported confirmation of a case of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The Director-General of NEMA, Mrs Zubaida Umar, gave the advice in a public awareness message, stressing the importance of public cooperation, early detection and strict observance of preventive measures to contain the disease and prevent further transmission.
Umar said NEMA remains committed to supporting the national response through appropriate coordination, emergency support and public awareness, in line with its mandate within the national emergency-management framework.
The DG noted that the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), in collaboration with the FCT Health Services Secretariat and other relevant authorities, are leading the public-health response.
According to the statement, the confirmed patient has been isolated and is receiving medical care, while contact tracing and surveillance activities are ongoing.
The NEMA Director-General emphasised that Ebola spreads primarily through direct contact with the blood or other bodily fluids of an infected person who is ill, or through contaminated materials.
She therefore advised Nigerians to maintain proper hand hygiene by washing their hands frequently with soap and running water or using an alcohol-based hand sanitiser.
Umar also urged members of the public to avoid contact with the blood and bodily fluids of anyone suspected of having Ebola, refrain from unsafe contact with wild animals and avoid handling dead wild animals.
She further cautioned against touching or preparing the body of anyone suspected of dying from Ebola, stressing that such burials should be handled by trained health authorities in accordance with established safety procedures.
The NEMA boss advised anyone who develops symptoms such as fever, severe weakness, headache, vomiting or diarrhoea following possible exposure to seek medical guidance immediately.
She called on Nigerians to cooperate fully with public-health officials and contact-tracing teams, provide accurate information when contacted and follow official medical advice.
She also warned against spreading rumours and misinformation or stigmatising suspected and confirmed cases, noting that responsible public behaviour is essential to effective disease control.
For official guidance or to report a suspected case, members of the public are advised to contact the NCDC through its toll-free line, 6232.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s successful containment of Ebola in 2014, Umar said the experience demonstrated the importance of early detection, effective contact tracing, individual responsibility and coordinated institutional action in breaking the chain of transmission.
She assured Nigerians that NEMA would continue to support the national response as required while reinforcing public awareness and emergency preparedness.
The Director-General urged citizens to remain informed, vigilant and committed to protecting themselves, their families and their communities.
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(Editor: Roluke Ogundele)
