From Okwe Obi, Abuja
Following the outbreak of Ebola disease in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has called for increased public awareness and strict adherence to official preventive measures against the epidemic, emphasising that protecting public health is essential to safeguarding lives, sustaining business operations and preserving economic stability.
The ACCI Director-General, Agabaidu Jideani, in a public advisory on Ebola prevention yesterday, urged individuals, businesses, workers and communities to remain vigilant, practise good hygiene and promptly report suspected cases through appropriate public health channels.
Agabaidu stressed that disease outbreaks could have consequences beyond the health sector, disrupting commercial activities, trade, workforce productivity, supply chains and livelihoods.
He noted that any development capable of distracting the business community or interrupting economic activities could adversely affect the wider economy, making preventive action and public cooperation imperative.
As part of the preventive measures, the ACCI Director-General urged the public to avoid direct contact with the blood and body fluids of suspected or confirmed Ebola cases, maintain regular hand washing with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitisers, and avoid handling bats, monkeys and other potentially infected wild animals.
He further advised the public to seek guidance from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) through its official channels when Ebola is suspected, rather than visiting a health facility without prior instructions. This, he noted, would help ensure that suspected cases are managed appropriately and reduce the risk of further transmission.
The Director-General also urged ACCI staff to remain cautious, observe appropriate hygiene practices and comply strictly with relevant public health guidelines and directives issued by competent authorities. He emphasised that workplace vigilance and responsible conduct are necessary to protect employees, business visitors and the wider Chamber community.
Speaking on the broader implications for the private sector, ACCI reiterated that public health protection is a shared responsibility requiring accurate information, responsible communication and coordinated action. The Chamber encouraged businesses to promote awareness among employees, reinforce appropriate hygiene practices in their workplaces and rely on credible official sources for information on Ebola prevention.
He reaffirmed the Chamber’s commitment to promoting a safe and resilient business environment in which enterprises can operate without avoidable disruptions.
He urged residents, employers, workers and community leaders to take preventive measures seriously, avoid spreading unverified information and support public health efforts to protect lives and livelihoods.