society
Nigeria on High Alert as NCDC Responds to Ebola Outbreak in Uganda
Nigeria on High Alert as NCDC Responds to Ebola Outbreak in Uganda
Abuja, Nigeria – The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) has placed the country on high alert following the confirmation of an Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) outbreak in Uganda. The Director-General of the NCDC, Jide Idris, made this known on Sunday during an interview with journalists in Abuja.
EVD is a rare but severe illness caused by viruses of the genus Ebolavirus. First identified in 1976 near the Ebola River in what is now the Democratic Republic of the Congo, the disease has led to multiple outbreaks across Africa. The virus spreads through close contact with the bodily fluids of infected animals such as fruit bats, chimpanzees, and gorillas, as well as human-to-human transmission via direct contact with infected individuals or contaminated materials.
Although no cases of Ebola have been reported in Nigeria, the NCDC, in collaboration with key stakeholders, has activated heightened surveillance measures to prevent the importation of the virus. The outbreak in Uganda, caused by the Sudan strain of the virus, was confirmed by Uganda’s Ministry of Health on January 30, 2025, with one reported case and one death in Wakiso, Mukono, and Mbale City in Mbale District. Ugandan health authorities are currently tracking 44 contacts to curb further spread.
In response, the NCDC has updated its EVD emergency contingency plan, increased screening at points of entry—particularly international airports—optimized diagnostic capacity for EVD testing in designated laboratories, and mobilized Lassa fever testing laboratories, which can be scaled up for Ebola testing if needed.
Jide Idris reassured Nigerians that proactive steps were being taken to mitigate any risk of an outbreak. “While there is no immediate cause for panic, we must remain vigilant. The Ebola Sudan strain has no approved vaccine, making early detection and containment critical,” he stated.
The NCDC has urged Nigerians to adhere to the following preventive measures:
- Practice good hand hygiene by washing hands regularly with soap and water or using hand sanitizers.
- Avoid contact with persons showing symptoms such as fever, weakness, vomiting, and unexplained bleeding.
- Refrain from consuming bushmeat, especially bats and primates.
- Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing symptoms after traveling to an affected country.
Health workers have been advised to maintain a high index of suspicion, use personal protective equipment (PPE), and report suspected cases immediately. While the World Health Organization (WHO) has not recommended travel restrictions, Nigerians are advised to avoid non-essential travel to countries with confirmed Ebola cases.
Travelers returning from affected countries in the last 21 days with symptoms such as fever, sore throat, vomiting, or unexplained bleeding should immediately call the NCDC toll-free number (6232) or their State Ministry of Health hotline.
Beyond Ebola, Nigeria is currently battling outbreaks of Lassa fever, meningitis, diphtheria, Mpox, measles, and anthrax. The NCDC reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening surveillance and response efforts across the country and encouraged Nigerians to stay informed through its hotline (6232), social media platforms (@NCDCgov), and official website.
Ebola’s incubation period ranges from 2 to 21 days. Initial symptoms include sudden fever, fatigue, muscle pain, headache, and sore throat. As the disease progresses, individuals may experience vomiting, diarrhea, rash, impaired kidney and liver function, and internal or external bleeding. Case fatality rates have ranged from 25% to 90% in past outbreaks, with an average rate of around 50%.
Effective outbreak control relies on a combination of interventions, including case management, surveillance and contact tracing, good laboratory services, safe burials, and community engagement. Raising awareness of risk factors and protective measures is crucial in preventing the spread of the disease.
There is an FDA-approved vaccine for the prevention of the Ebola Zaire strain; however, vaccines for other strains, including the Sudan strain, are still under development. Supportive care—rehydration with oral or intravenous fluids—and treatment of specific symptoms improve survival rates. Various potential treatments, including blood products, immune therapies, and drug therapies, are currently being evaluated.
society
Liberian Leaders, Citizens Bear Witness as Apostle Suleman Hosts Two-Day Power-Packed Crusade
Liberian Leaders, Citizens Bear Witness as Apostle Suleman Hosts Two-Day Power-Packed Crusade
It was testimonies galore on Tuesday, March 31, the first day of the famous servant of God and founder of the Omega Fire Ministries (OFM) worldwide, Apostle Johnson Suleman’s power-packed two-day crusade. The event documented impactful moments with the Gospel and miracles, emphasizing the power of faith and the tangible confirmation of God’s Word through signs and wonders. It was equally an atmosphere of miraculous healing, restoration of lives, and the strengthening of faith.
At the crusade, which was held at the SKD Sports Stadium in Paynesville City, and themed, “Liberia Outpouring Crusade” witnessed testimonies of impact and miracles with participants experiencing instant healing of various kinds of challenges.
Apostle Suleman’s first port of call was Paynesville, the office of Liberian government’s president, Mr. Joseph Nyuma Boakai, who received him in an audience with his junior ministers. Apostle Suleman, who also met with the vice-president, Mr. Jeremiah Kpan Koung, was welcomed by the Liberian leader’s office as part of the president’s ongoing engagements with religious leaders aimed at fostering spiritual support for national development.
The president expressed profound appreciation to Apostle Suleman for the visit and continued prayers and intercessions by men and women of God on behalf of Liberia, emphasizing his firm belief that sustained spiritual guidance and prayer remain vital to the transformation and progress of the nation.
During the visit, Apostle Suleman offered prayers for President Boakai, his cabinet and the Liberian nation, invoking divine alignment, wisdom, and insight in Liberia’s path toward growth and stability. He prayed that the Almighty God would position Liberia for relevance and fulfillment of its national destiny.
Apostle Johnson Suleman, an evangelist who knows no bounds of where preaching the gospel comes to a stop, visited Liberia prepared with the message, compelling power of the Gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit, and bringing people to a point of decision where they surrendered their lives to Christ.
Aside from being prophetic and timely, OFM sources disclosed that the servant of God’s visit underscores the importance of faith-based partnerships in supporting governance and national renewal efforts.
society
Middle Belt Forum Hails Tinubu’s Jos Visit, Calls for United Civil-Military Effort to Restore Lasting Peace
*Middle Belt Forum Hails Tinubu’s Jos Visit, Calls for United Civil-Military Effort to Restore Lasting Peace
The Middle Belt Peace Forum (MBPF) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his profound demonstration of empathy and responsive leadership following his decision to postpone an official engagement in Iperu in order to visit victims of the recent attacks in Jos.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Pastor Bulus Garba, in Jos on Friday, the Forum said the President’s decision to personally identify with grieving communities sends a powerful message of solidarity and reinforces public confidence in the commitment of the Federal Government to the protection of lives and property.
“The Middle Belt Peace Forum warmly commends President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritising compassion over ceremony. At a time of deep sorrow for the people of Plateau State, his decision to visit Jos stands as a mark of true leadership—one that listens, responds, and stands with the people in their moment of pain,” the statement read.
The Forum described the perpetrators of the recent attacks as “cowards who prey on innocent and defenceless citizens,” stressing that such acts of violence are not only inhumane but also a direct assault on the unity and peace of the nation.
“We condemn in the strongest terms the actions of these cowardly attackers whose only aim is to instil fear and destabilise peaceful communities. Their actions must be met with firm and decisive resistance from all arms of the state,” Pastor Garba said.
The MBPF further used the opportunity to salute the courage, gallantry, and sacrifices of the Armed Forces of Nigeria under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, noting that their continued efforts remain central to restoring stability across troubled parts of the country.
According to the Forum, the Armed Forces have demonstrated resilience and professionalism in the face of complex security challenges, often operating under difficult conditions to safeguard communities and defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
“We salute the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their unwavering commitment and sacrifices. Their gallantry in confronting criminal elements and reclaiming territories is a testament to their dedication to national service. We recognise that the path to peace is demanding, and we honour those who stand daily in defence of our nation,” the statement added.
The Forum pledged its full support to ongoing military operations and called for strengthened collaboration between security agencies and local communities as a critical factor in achieving lasting peace.
It also urged citizens across the Middle Belt to cooperate with security forces by providing timely information and fostering unity within their communities.
The MBPF, however, expressed concern over the need for greater synergy among security agencies, particularly the role of the Nigeria Police in consolidating gains made by the military.
“We call on the Nigeria Police Force to rise fully to its constitutional responsibility by effectively supporting the Armed Forces in stabilising and securing areas that have been cleared of criminal elements. Holding and policing such territories is essential to preventing a resurgence of violence,” Pastor Garba stated.
The Forum emphasised that sustainable peace requires a coordinated approach in which the military clears and secures areas, while the police maintain law and order to enable displaced communities to return and rebuild their lives.
The MBPF concluded by reiterating its commitment to peacebuilding efforts across the Middle Belt and expressed optimism that with sustained leadership, coordinated security efforts, and active citizen participation, lasting peace can be achieved.
“Together, through unity, vigilance, and collective resolve, we can overcome these challenges and build a safer and more peaceful Middle Belt,” the statement added.
society
Governor Dauda Lawal Wins Face of Africa Governor of the Year Award in London
Governor Dauda Lawal Wins Face of Africa Governor of the Year Award in London
Governor Dauda Lawal has been honored with the Outstanding Governor of the Year award by Triangle Media International Magazine.
The award was presented during the magazine’s 10th annual lecture and award ceremony, held on Thursday at the Grand Hall of King’s College, London, United Kingdom.
According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the awards recognize public and private sector leaders whose leadership positively impacts governance and service delivery.
He added that the lecture, themed “Harnessing the Roles of Nigerians in Diaspora for National Development,” brought together stakeholders from both the public and private sectors.
The statement read in part: “Yesterday, in London, Governor Dauda Lawal received the 2026 Face of Africa Leadership Award for Outstanding Governor of the Year.
“The 2026 edition coincides with the 10th anniversary of Triangle International Magazine, which has over the years celebrated notable Africans across diverse fields.
“The award recognizes the Zamfara State Government under Governor Lawal’s leadership for achieving remarkable milestones in service delivery since his inauguration on 29 May 2023.
“The board of Triangle International noted that, despite inheriting an empty treasury, Governor Dauda Lawal has remained true to the Rescue Agenda’s campaign promise: to rescue and rebuild Zamfara.
“The award also reflects the state government’s innovative approach to indirectly curbing insecurity through educational advancement, demonstrated by the declaration of a state of emergency in the education sector.
“This includes the state government’s swift payment of the outstanding N3.4 billion for WAEC and NECO examinations, as well as the reconstruction and rehabilitation of schools across all 14 Local Government Areas of Zamfara State.
“The international magazine finds these initiatives to be strategic interventions toward long-term efforts to make Zamfara State better.”
The colourful event was attended by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and Sahara Group’s Group Managing Director, Kola Adesina, among others.
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