The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has moved to calm growing fears over the possible spread of the Ebola virus into the country, stating that no confirmed case has been recorded in Nigeria.
The aviation agency said strict health surveillance measures have already been activated across international airports to prevent any possible importation of the disease into the country.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, FAAN explained that it had strengthened monitoring systems at airports following concerns linked to reported Ebola outbreaks in parts of Central Africa.
According to the Authority, health officials and emergency response teams have been placed on alert at entry points across the country.
FAAN stated that “robust health surveillance and monitoring systems” are currently in operation at all international airports to ensure early detection of any suspected case.
The agency said it is collaborating with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), Port Health Services and other relevant agencies to tighten screening procedures for international passengers, especially travellers arriving from affected regions.
The Authority disclosed that passengers are being screened for symptoms associated with the Ebola virus, while any suspected case would be “immediately isolated and subjected to secondary medical evaluation in line with national and international health protocols.”
FAAN also revealed that airport workers and frontline personnel are undergoing intensified sensitisation programmes as part of efforts to strengthen preparedness and emergency response capacity.
The agency added that coordination with airline operators, airport stakeholders and health authorities has also been improved to ensure quick action in the event of any emergency situation.
While assuring Nigerians that there is no confirmed Ebola infection in the country, FAAN urged passengers and airport users not to panic.
The Authority advised travellers to cooperate fully with health officials during screening exercises and promptly report any unusual symptoms or health concerns.
The latest development comes amid heightened health concerns across parts of Africa following renewed reports of Ebola outbreaks in some countries within the Central African region.
Nigeria had previously recorded Ebola cases in 2014 after an infected traveller arrived in Lagos from Liberia. However, swift intervention by health authorities helped contain the outbreak before it spread widely across the country.