Immediate Release of NOK 10 Billion for Emergency Response
President Bola Tinubu has announced the formation of the Presidential Task Force on Ebola Virus Preparedness and Emerging Public Health Threats, alongside the immediate release of 10 billion Naira in emergency intervention funds. This financial injection aims to bolster the operational readiness of the National Center for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and support essential public health response initiatives.
Leadership and Composition of the Task Force
The Presidential Task Force on Ebola will be led by Femi Gbajabiamila, the President’s Chief of Staff. The group consists of representatives from key ministries, departments, and agencies, as well as state government officials, ensuring a comprehensive approach to health security.
Growing Concerns Over Ebola Resurgence
The initiative comes in response to recent outbreaks of Ebola in neighboring countries, particularly the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Uganda. As the virus threatens regional stability, Nigeria’s proactive measures are crucial for safeguarding public health.
Review and Strategy Development Meeting
In line with this initiative, a stakeholder meeting was convened under the chairmanship of the Chief of Staff. The focus of the meeting was to assess Nigeria’s readiness for a potential Ebola outbreak and to formulate a strategic approach to combat the disease’s introduction into the country. Key participants included representatives from the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN), the Nigerian Immigration Service (NIS), and the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA), as well as officials from the Lagos State Government.
Enhanced Screening and Surveillance Measures
President Tinubu has called upon nations hosting international airports and border corridors, along with relevant ministries and agencies, to submit their action plans, funding needs, and intervention strategies for comprehensive coordination. The Special Committee’s proposed measures include enhanced passenger screening protocols at all international airports, encompassing temperature checks and improved crowd control measures.
Activation of Isolation Centers and Health Declarations
Immediate activation of referral and isolation centers at Lagos International Airport and Abuja International Airport is part of the plan, with other airports set to follow. Additionally, passengers traveling from high-risk regions will be required to complete a QR code-based health declaration prior to arrival, contributing to preventive health measures. The disinfection of airport facilities, including departure halls and cargo areas, is also mandated to mitigate risks.
Collaboration for Aviation Safety
The President has instructed the establishment of an advisory group that will engage with security, diplomatic, and aviation authorities to oversee flight regulations from affected and high-risk regions. The task force will designate specific airports or terminals for managing flights deemed high-risk, facilitating controlled screening and isolation procedures. Adjustments to flight schedules may also be considered to limit passenger interactions between high-risk individuals and the general public.
