Health Minister Breaks Silence as FG Confirms Ebola Case in FCT, Traces 44 Contacts

According to a report by The Vanguard on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, the Federal Government has officially commenced intense contact tracing after a laboratory-confirmed case of Ebola was recorded in the Federal Capital Territory.

According to a statement signed by Ado Bako, Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations at the health ministry, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, confirmed the development on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.

The patient is a female traveler who arrived in Nigeria on an international flight from Uganda. She was admitted to a private hospital in the FCT, where she spent several days receiving medical attention before her diagnosis was established. She is currently isolated and receiving treatment.

Public health teams have already identified 44 close contacts, including healthcare workers, patients, caregivers, and fellow passengers. Authorities are closely monitoring these individuals while upgrading infection control measures at the treating hospital.

The minister urged all individuals flagged during contact tracing to cooperate fully with health officials. He also called on hospitals nationwide to maintain a high level of alertness, isolate suspected cases promptly, and report them without delay.

Nigerians are advised to stay calm, maintain regular hand hygiene, and steer clear of bodily fluids from suspected cases. Symptoms to look out for include fever, severe weakness, headaches, vomiting, and diarrhoea.

The government warned against spreading unverified rumours or stigmatizing exposed individuals. For reports and inquiries, the NCDC toll-free emergency line, 6232, remains open 24/7.

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