LAGOS, Nigeria – The Federal Government has directed ministries, departments and agencies to enforce approved Ebola Virus Disease entry protocols at Nigeria’s designated points of entry, warning that non-compliance could undermine efforts to detect and respond to public health threats.
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare issued the directive on Friday following concerns raised by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) over reported breaches of the approved procedures.
In a statement signed by Ado Bako, Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations at the ministry, the government called for consistent, effective and non-discriminatory enforcement of the protocols. The ministry said the measures were intended to reduce the risk of cross-border transmission and protect public health and national security.
It directed relevant agencies, health institutions and other stakeholders to comply with prescribed screening, health declaration and surveillance requirements at designated entry points. The ministry also stressed the need for stronger coordination, communication and information-sharing among institutions responsible for implementing the measures.
The ministry urged relevant institutions to document and promptly report any actual or attempted breach of the approved protocols through established channels. It also called on agencies to support enforcement officials and establish effective monitoring and accountability mechanisms to identify and address lapses.
The statement stressed that personnel responsible for enforcing the protocols should be allowed to carry out their duties professionally and without undue interference. The ministry directed all concerned agencies to circulate the advisory immediately to relevant departments, field offices and personnel, address identified gaps and sustain compliance.
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