STORY BY IRENE KABUKIE KWAO—
Nigeria has confirmed an imported case of Ebola Bundibugyo virus disease in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, with 44 contacts identified and placed under monitoring.
The World Health Organisation (WHO), in a Facebook post on Tuesday, October 20, said the patient is a woman with a recent travel history to Uganda. She is currently in isolation and receiving medical care.
According to Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the woman developed symptoms on October 7 and sought treatment at a private health facility in Abuja on October 11. Laboratory tests confirmed the infection on October 20.
The case makes Nigeria the fifth country to report the virus since an outbreak was declared in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) on May 15, 2026.
Contact tracing and response measures underway
Health authorities are investigating the source of the infection and tracing people who may have come into contact with the patient.
Measures are also being strengthened to prevent the spread of the virus, including improved infection prevention and control practices at the health facility where the woman initially sought treatment.
The WHO said it is supporting Nigeria’s response through case investigations, contact tracing and the provision of essential supplies, including protective equipment for healthcare workers.
The organisation has urged countries across the region to strengthen disease surveillance and preparedness as the outbreak continues to develop.
It has also advised against imposing travel and trade restrictions on affected countries.
Regional concerns grow
Nigeria’s confirmation comes amid continued efforts to contain the Ebola Bundibugyo outbreak in the DRC and prevent further cross-border transmission.
The WHO has called on countries in the region to maintain vigilance and strengthen their capacity to detect and respond to suspected cases.
Kenya has also reported nine cases linked to an imported infection in recent weeks, according to the WHO.
Health authorities are continuing to monitor the situation as investigations and response efforts progress.
