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
NAWOJ: SEKINAT, CHARITY GETS VOTE OF CONFIDENCE
NAWOJ: SEKINAT, CHARITY GETS VOTE OF CONFIDENCE
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists,(NAWOJ), Ogun State Chapter Executives has unanimously passed a vote of confidence on Chairman NAWOJ SEKINAT Salam and the Financial Secretary, Charity James, saying that, their leadership reflect the ideal and objectives of NAWOJ.
This was revealed in a communique issued at an Emergency meeting of the Executive held at the NUJ State Council, Iwe-Iroyin in Abeokuta.
The vote of confidence on the Leadership of NAWOJ was unanimously signed by all the five executive members that attended the meeting with the vice chairperson taking apology for official engagement outside the state capital.
According to the communique ” Consequently, NAWOJ Ogun State Chapter, reaffirms it’s unwavering support and confidence in the Chairperson and the Financial Secretary, Sekinat Salam and Charity James respectively, Urge them to continue in their commitment to purposeful leadership in the best interest of the association and the society at large”.
Speaking briefly with Journalists after the emergency Executive meeting, the Chairperson, Nigeria Association of Woman Journalists (NAWOJ), Com. Sekinat Salam, said the meeting was necessary as the news of her suspension was laughable and insulting because it is like a pot calling a kettle black in this case, saying that the Leadership of the State Council, Com. Wale Olanrewaju has no local standing to suspend her or any executive member, even he cannot be a judge in his own case.
According to her” The Leadership of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State led by Wale Olanrewaju has always been misusing power without recourse to the constitution of this noble Union, hence has no local standing to suspend me or any executive member “.
She said only the Central Working Committee (CWC) has the constitutional rights to sanction or suspend any members found wanting after due process has been followed.
While calling on members to stay calm, Com. Sekinat Salam assured members of positive representation of NAWOJ at both the State and National level, adding the success recorded under her administration cannot be overemphasized.
She therefore called on the National leadership of NUJ to critically look into the matter, either by setting up independent committee to investigate the issues and resolve the matter as quickly as possible.
society
Adron Homes Chairman Congratulates Oyo State on 50 Years of Progress
Adron Homes Chairman Congratulates Oyo State on 50 Years of Progress
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Adron Homes and Properties Limited, Aare Adetola Emmanuelking, has congratulated the Government and people of Oyo State as the state marks its 50th anniversary, describing the occasion as a celebration of resilience, cultural pride, and sustained progress.
He noted that since its creation, Oyo State has remained a strong contributor to Nigeria’s socio-economic and cultural development, emerging as a hub of commerce, education, and innovation.
According to him, the Golden Jubilee offers a moment for reflection and renewed commitment by government, private sector players, traditional institutions, and citizens toward building a more inclusive and prosperous state.
Aare Emmanuelking commended the state’s ongoing transformation through investments in infrastructure, economic expansion, and human capital development, adding that sustainable growth is deliberate and must remain purpose-driven.
He also praised the leadership of the current administration while acknowledging the contributions of past leaders whose efforts laid the foundation for today’s Oyo State.
Reaffirming Adron Homes’ commitment to national development, he described Oyo State as a land of opportunity. He wished the state continued peace and prosperity, expressing confidence that the next fifty years will bring even greater achievements for the Pace Setter State and its people.
society
TY BURATAI HUMANITY CARE FOUNDATION CONDOLES WITH BIU EMIRATE OVER TRAGIC ATTACK
TY BURATAI HUMANITY CARE FOUNDATION CONDOLES WITH BIU EMIRATE OVER TRAGIC ATTACK
In a profound expression of sorrow, the TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation has extended its heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims and the entire people of Biu Emirate, Borno State, following the recent tragic attack attributed to Boko Haram. This devastating assault, which occurred at a work site in northeastern Nigeria, claimed the lives of dozens, including brave soldiers committed to protecting the nation.
In a statement released to the press and signed by the Chairman of the foundation, Ibrahim Dahiru Danfulani Sadaukin Garkuwan Keffi/Betara Biu, the Grand Patron of the Foundation, His Excellency Amb. Lt. Gen. Tukur Yusufu Buratai CFR (Rtd), former Chief of Army Staff, described the incident as “one too many senseless, barbaric, and ruthless displays of inhumanity.” His Excellency emphasized the heartbreaking impact of such attacks on innocent, hardworking citizens striving to make a positive difference in their communities.
The Grand Patron praised the swift and decisive response of military personnel during this critical time, underscoring their brave commitment to safeguarding the nation. He called upon them to maintain this momentum, commending their courage and sacrifice in the face of adversity. “May Almighty Allah forgive their souls and grant them Aljannah Firdouse,” he remarked, encouraging the nation to honor their spirit of sacrifice as they rally together to rebuild and restore hope across the region.
In his statement, Gen. Buratai highlighted the importance of collective action in overcoming the challenges posed by insecurity, urging concerned citizens to increase their efforts in fostering a virile community that future generations can cherish. “Together, we can surmount these troubles,” he asserted, calling on all patriotic leaders and citizens to unite in the fight against violence and insecurity.
The TY Buratai Humanity Care Foundation remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote peace, security, unity, and prosperity. As the foundation extends its condolences to the bereaved, it also calls upon all segments of society to collaborate in creating a better and safer future. May Allah guide and protect the nation and lead it toward enduring peace. Amen.
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