The House of Representatives on Wednesday urged the Federal Government to strengthen preventive and emergency medical measures against the spread of Ebola Virus Disease in Nigeria, following the confirmation of a case in Abuja.
The House also called for the immediate release of outstanding appropriated funds to relevant health agencies to boost the country’s preparedness and response capacity.
The resolutions followed the adoption of a motion of urgent public importance sponsored by the member representing Isuikwato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State, Amobi Ogah, during plenary on Wednesday.
Presenting the motion, Ogah described Ebola Virus Disease as a severe and potentially fatal infectious disease that requires prompt detection, effective infection prevention and control measures, and coordinated public health intervention to prevent transmission and save lives.
“It is extremely disturbing that yesterday, October 20, 2026 an Ebola Virus case was confirmed in a woman arriving from Uganda in Abuja who tested positive. Health authorities traced 44 contacts for isolation and further tests,” he said.
The lawmaker warned that delays in detecting suspected cases, conducting laboratory investigations, isolating infected persons, tracing contacts and providing timely medical care could increase the risk of transmission and put additional pressure on the country’s healthcare system.
