The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has intensified health surveillance across the country’s airports following the reported confirmation of an Ebola Virus Disease case in Abuja, as authorities step up efforts to prevent the potential spread of the infection.
FAAN said it was working closely with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), Port Health Services, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) and other relevant agencies to support the national response.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, the authority’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, said the coordinated measures were aimed at strengthening public health monitoring and ensuring that appropriate protocols were observed at airports.
According to FAAN, the early detection of the reported case and the commencement of contact tracing underscore the importance of established public health procedures and cooperation among government agencies.
The authority urged passengers, airline operators, airport users and other stakeholders to remain calm and cooperate with health officials carrying out surveillance and other preventive measures.
FAAN also advised members of the public to rely on verified information from official sources and avoid spreading unconfirmed reports that could cause unnecessary panic.
The airport authority reaffirmed its commitment to protecting passengers, airport workers and other users while maintaining safe and uninterrupted airport operations.
The development comes amid heightened public health concerns following reports of an imported Ebola case in the Federal Capital Territory.
Ebola is a serious viral disease that can spread through direct contact with the blood or other bodily fluids of an infected person who has developed symptoms, as well as contaminated materials. Early identification, appropriate isolation and effective infection-prevention measures are important in limiting transmission.
FAAN’s intensified surveillance forms part of broader efforts by Nigerian health and aviation authorities to monitor potential risks associated with international travel and respond promptly to emerging public health threats.
Passengers have been encouraged to follow instructions from airport health personnel and seek information from recognised government agencies as the response continues.
Shola Akinyele
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