President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has directed the immediate release of N10 billion as emergency intervention funding for Ebola preparedness in Nigeria. The President also approved the creation of a Presidential Task Force on Ebola Virus Disease Preparedness and Emerging Public Health Threats, according to a statement by presidential aide Bayo Onanuga.
Task Force Leadership and Membership
The task force will be chaired by the Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila. Members will be drawn from relevant ministries, departments, agencies, and state representatives. The body is tasked with overseeing disease response strategies and coordination efforts across the country.
Funding Allocation
The N10 billion fund is intended to strengthen the operational readiness of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and support critical national public health emergency response activities. Onanuga confirmed the allocation in a statement on June 9, 2026.
Stakeholder Meeting and Border Screening
The President's decision followed a stakeholder meeting to review Nigeria's preparedness against possible importation of Ebola. Tinubu directed all states with international airports and border corridors, as well as relevant MDAs, to submit their plans, funding needs, and intervention requirements for coordinated implementation.
The President also mandated the advisory group to consult with security, diplomatic, and aviation bodies to regulate flights from affected and high-risk countries. Specific airports or terminals will be designated for high-risk flights to enable controlled screening and isolation. Flight timings may also be adjusted to minimize interaction between high-risk passengers and others.
Public Reaction
Nigerians have reacted to the President's swift action. @Sah_Uthmna expressed gratitude, calling it a testament to Tinubu's commitment to public health. Others like @neptunejewel hoped the funds would not be looted, while @korey_101 urged timely release of funds to prevent an outbreak. @thenaijagooner called for strict oversight to ensure proper use of the money.
Background on Ebola Threat
The federal government has assured citizens that no confirmed Ebola case has been recorded in Nigeria. However, health authorities have intensified surveillance and emergency preparedness following outbreaks in East and Central Africa. Hospitals and laboratories are on alert, and screening and public awareness campaigns have been strengthened nationwide.
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that 21 states and the Federal Capital Territory were placed on heightened Ebola alert due to the risk of importation through international travel. The NCDC emphasized that rapid detection and preparedness are critical to preventing the spread of the virus.
