Tinubu Establishes Task Force for Ebola Preparedness

President Bola Tinubu has approved the establishment of a Presidential Task Force on Ebola Virus Disease Preparedness in response to the recent resurgence of Ebola in neighboring countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda. A statement issued by presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga confirmed the allocation of N10 billion for emergency intervention to strengthen Nigeria's operational preparedness through the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

The task force will be chaired by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, with membership drawn from relevant ministries, departments, and agencies, as well as state representatives. The initiative follows a stakeholder meeting aimed at reviewing Nigeria's preparedness and developing strategies against potential Ebola importation.

Tinubu directed that states hosting international airports and borders submit plans for required interventions. The task force will implement enhanced passenger screening measures at international airports, including temperature checks and mandatory health declarations for travelers from high-risk countries.