Nigeria has intensified its Ebola preparedness measures as the outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) continues to escalate, with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) urging vigilance and enhanced surveillance. The NCDC, led by Director-General Jide Idris, announced on 22 September 2026 that travelers from countries with active Ebola transmission may be required to complete a Health Declaration Form as part of heightened border controls. This follows the DRC’s reported 7,773 confirmed Ebola cases and 3,759 deaths as of 21 September, with a 48% case fatality rate, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
The DRC’s Ebola outbreak, caused by the Bundibugyo strain, has spread to 63 health zones across seven provinces, with the Haut-Uélé Province’s Dungu Health Zone newly reporting cases. The WHO warned that the geographical expansion raises concerns about cross-border transmission, particularly in regions with porous borders and high population mobility. The NCDC emphasized that its measures are precautionary, focusing on strengthening surveillance to prevent the disease’s importation and spread within Nigeria.
Under the new protocol, travelers from high-risk countries must disclose their recent travel history, including destinations in Nigeria and potential health symptoms, via an online form. State surveillance teams will conduct 21-day follow-ups for those arriving from affected areas. The agency stated that these steps align with its dynamic risk assessment and consultations with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. ‘Nigeria remains on high alert, and all preparatory activities are ongoing,’ the NCDC said in a statement, adding that measures will be reviewed as the outbreak evolves.
The International Organisation for Migration (IOM) has expanded disease surveillance along major travel routes, including river corridors and border areas, following the DRC’s outbreak. The IOM reported supporting over 33 million health screenings in the region, though the Bundibugyo strain lacks an approved vaccine or treatment. The outbreak has been exacerbated by insecurity, population displacement, and challenges in accessing affected communities, according to the WHO.
Public health experts have highlighted the urgency of Nigeria’s response, given the virus’s high fatality rate and the potential for rapid transmission in densely populated areas. The NCDC urged Nigerians to seek medical attention immediately if they experience symptoms such as fever, vomiting, or hemorrhaging. Health workers were advised to inquire about recent travel or exposure history to identify potential cases early.
The DRC’s outbreak, now the country’s worst since 2018, has primarily affected Ituri Province, where healthcare infrastructure is strained. The WHO noted that the lack of community trust and misinformation have hindered containment efforts. Nigeria’s proactive measures, including the health declaration system, aim to mitigate similar challenges within its borders. ‘Our focus is on preparedness, not panic,’ Idris said in a public address.
The NCDC’s actions reflect broader regional concerns as the Ebola crisis threatens to spill into neighboring countries. With the DRC’s outbreak showing no signs of abating, Nigeria’s surveillance upgrades and public awareness campaigns are critical to preventing a domestic health emergency. The agency reiterated its commitment to transparency, stating that updates on the situation will be shared as they become available.
The situation underscores the fragility of public health systems in the face of emerging threats. As the DRC grapples with its largest Ebola outbreak, Nigeria’s vigilance serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of global health security. The NCDC’s measures, while precautionary, highlight the importance of international cooperation and rapid response in containing infectious diseases.