The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) has debunked reports of an Ebola outbreak, assuring residents that there is no case of the deadly virus in Abuja.
Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, Mandate Secretary for Health and Human Services, stated this at a press conference on Friday, clarifying that a patient who had recently arrived in Nigeria tested negative for both Ebola Virus Disease and Marburg Virus.
Her remarks followed confirmation by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) that two suspected cases of viral hemorrhagic fever in Abuja returned negative results. According to the NCDC Director General, Dr. Jide Idris, further tests are underway for other fevers such as Lassa and dengue.
Fasawe credited the swift response to the “efficient surveillance system” established by FCT Minister Nyesom Wike, adding that the Emergency Operating Centre played a key role in containing the situation.
“On behalf of the Honourable Minister, I say today that Ebola is not in the FCT. Confirmed, verified, and said with authority,” she declared.
The health secretary explained that the patient, who had traveled from Rwanda—a country bordering Ebola-hit Congo—was immediately isolated after reporting a fever. She commended both the patient for promptly seeking medical care and Nisa Premier Hospital for adhering to infectious disease protocols.
Authorities also traced contacts from the patient’s flight and confirmed there was no risk of further spread. The patient, she noted, is now responding to treatment for fever unrelated to Ebola.
Fasawe urged residents to take health symptoms seriously, stressing that not all fevers are malaria.
“If you notice fever or unusual bleeding, report immediately to the nearest health centre. Early reporting saves lives,” she warned.
The FCT Administration, she added, remains committed to safeguarding public health through strengthened surveillance and investments in healthcare.
