Trending 
The Nigerian Government has ordered stricter enforcement of Ebola screening protocols at all designated entry points into Nigeria to reduce the risk of cross-border transmission.
The ministry conveyed the order in a circular on Thursday. The Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom S., signed the circular on behalf of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate.
The directive requires ministries, departments and agencies, health institutions, and other relevant stakeholders to fully comply with the approved Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) entry procedures.
The Ministry of Health and Social Welfare issued the directive after the Office of the National Security Adviser raised concerns about reported cases of non-compliance. The ministry stressed the need for consistent enforcement to protect public health and national security. It called for “consistent, effective and non-discriminatory enforcement of the measures” at all designated points of entry.
Under the directive, relevant institutions must ensure compliance with screening procedures, health declaration requirements, surveillance measures and other approved entry protocols.
The government also called for better coordination, communication and information-sharing among responsible agencies. These measures are expected to strengthen surveillance, support early detection and ensure prompt responses to possible public health threats.
To improve accountability, the ministry directed concerned institutions to document and report actual or attempted breaches through established channels. They must also support enforcement officials and establish monitoring systems to identify and address lapses.
The circular further stressed that personnel responsible for enforcing the protocols must be allowed to perform 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 treat the directive as a priority and maintain compliance with the approved EVD entry protocols.
It added, “Effective implementation, inter-agency coordination and accountability remain essential to strengthening Nigeria’s preparedness against cross-border health threats and safeguarding the health and safety of the population.”
