In a decisive move to safeguard public health, the Niger State Government has rolled out enhanced screening protocols for pilgrims returning from Saudi Arabia, aiming to intercept any potential cases of Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) before they can spread within the state.
Health teams stationed at the Bola Ahmed Tinubu International Airport in Minna are conducting rigorous temperature checks and medical evaluations on all incoming pilgrims. This action comes amid elevated fears following recent Ebola outbreaks in several African nations, including Uganda and the Democratic Republic of Congo.
Dr. Ibrahim Idris, the Director of Public Health, who oversaw the operation, confirmed that no returnee has exhibited signs of Ebola or any febrile illness thus far. He emphasized that the screenings are a proactive strategy to detect and contain infectious diseases early.
Representing the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Murtala Bagana, Dr. Idris revealed that the state is gearing up to reactivate its Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) as part of a broader preparedness plan against Ebola and other infectious threats. He stated that the Ministry of Health is collaborating closely with key stakeholders to prevent diseases of public health importance from entering the state through international travel corridors.
The Acting Airport Manager and Head of Security, Nafiu H. Na’Abba, confirmed that airport authorities have received explicit instructions to ensure stringent checks on all passengers arriving from Saudi Arabia. He added that airport staff have been fully mobilized to support health officials in screening, temperature monitoring, crowd control, and enforcement of public health guidelines.
Nigeria has directed states with international airports and border crossings to step up passenger screening and disease surveillance nationwide. This heightened vigilance reflects the growing concern over Ebola outbreaks elsewhere in Africa, prompting authorities to bolster their response mechanisms and protect the population from a potential importation of the virus.