The Federal Government has disclosed that genomic analysis of Nigeria’s confirmed Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) case in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) shows that the virus is genetically related to one identified in a case in Kenya....
The Federal Government has disclosed that genomic analysis of Nigeria’s confirmed Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) case in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) shows that the virus is genetically related to one identified in a case in Kenya.
However, the government said further investigations were needed to determine whether the two cases were epidemiologically linked.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, disclosed this in an update issued on Friday, October 23, 2026.
According to the minister, the findings provide important scientific information but do not, on their own, establish a direct transmission link between the cases in Nigeria and Kenya.
The genomic analysis was conducted by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) and the Institute of Genomics and Global Health (IGH) at Redeemer’s University, Ede, Osun State, led by Professor Christian Happi.
Pate commended both institutions for the speed and scientific rigour of their work.
He added that identified contacts of the confirmed case remained under active monitoring, with some testing negative while results for others were still pending.
The minister said the Federal Government was strengthening surveillance, laboratory capacity, case management, risk communication and infection prevention and control measures as part of efforts to contain the disease.
Healthcare facilities have also been reminded to promptly identify and report suspected cases to public health authorities.
Additional training and sensitisation for healthcare workers are expected to support the effective implementation of response protocols.
In a related development, the NCDC said it would begin issuing brief daily public updates from Saturday, October 24, to provide regular information as the situation evolves.
Pate urged Nigerians to remain calm and vigilant, observe recommended safety precautions and follow official public health guidance.
He also cautioned against spreading misinformation and unverified reports, advising the public to rely on updates from recognised authorities, including the NCDC, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention.
The Federal Government reaffirmed its commitment to containing the outbreak, protecting healthcare workers and preventing further transmission, while urging the public and relevant stakeholders to cooperate with the response efforts.