Ebola: FG directs agencies to intensify public awareness

The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has directed agencies under his ministry to intensify public awareness campaigns following the reported confirmation of an Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) case in the Federal Capital Territory.

The directive affects the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Voice of Nigeria (VON) and News Agency of Nigeria (NAN).

According to the report, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) confirmed the case in a woman who recently travelled to Abuja from Uganda. The woman is reportedly in isolation and receiving treatment, while health authorities have identified and are monitoring her contacts.

Idris said timely and accurate information was essential to preventing the spread of the disease. He directed the agencies to collaborate with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and the NCDC to ensure that public messages were verified and evidence-based.

“The Federal Government is taking every necessary step to contain this case and protect Nigerians. Accurate and timely information is one of our strongest defences,” the minister said.

He added, “Our agencies must reach every community, in every language, with clear facts on how Ebola spreads, how to protect ourselves and where to report suspected cases.”

The minister specifically directed the NOA to use its nationwide network to intensify grassroots sensitisation in collaboration with traditional rulers, religious leaders, community organisations and the media.

The ministry is also expected to strengthen its partnership with broadcast media organisations, including the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), to expand public enlightenment on Ebola prevention and containment.

The planned activities include airing public awareness jingles, producing information, education and communication materials in Nigerian languages, and disseminating verified health information across communities.

Idris urged Nigerians to remain calm, obtain information from official sources and avoid sharing unverified claims on social media.

Members of the public who suspect an Ebola case have been advised to contact the NCDC through its toll-free, 24-hour emergency line on 6232.

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