The Federal Government has directed ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs), health institutions and other relevant stakeholders to strictly enforce approved Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) entry protocols at all designated points of entry into Nigeria.
The directive followed concerns raised by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) over reported breaches of the approved measures, according to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
The ministry conveyed the directive in a circular dated 22 October 2026, signed by the Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom S., on behalf of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate.
It stressed that consistent enforcement of the protocols was necessary to reduce the risk of cross-border transmission and protect public health and national security.
The ministry called for “consistent, effective and non-discriminatory enforcement of the measures” across all designated points of entry into the country.
Under the directive, relevant institutions are required to ensure compliance with prescribed screening procedures, health declaration requirements, surveillance measures and other applicable entry protocols.
The government also called for stronger coordination, communication and information-sharing among responsible agencies to improve disease surveillance, facilitate early detection and ensure prompt responses to potential public health threats.
To strengthen compliance and accountability, the ministry directed relevant institutions to document and report any actual or attempted breaches of the approved protocols promptly through established channels.
It also instructed the institutions to provide the necessary support to enforcement officials and establish effective monitoring mechanisms to identify and address lapses.
The circular further emphasised that personnel responsible for enforcing the protocols must be allowed to discharge their duties professionally and without undue interference.
“The Ministry has directed the immediate and widespread dissemination of the circular to relevant departments, units, field offices and personnel to ensure that all concerned institutions understand their responsibilities and take prompt action to address identified lapses,” the statement said.
The ministry urged all relevant institutions to accord the directive the highest priority and maintain strict compliance with the approved EVD entry protocols.
