NEWS
Abia Activates Ebola Containment Measures, Intensifies Public Awareness Campaign
The Abia State Government has activated disease prevention and containment measures following the recent confirmation of an index case of Ebola virus disease in Nigeria, stepping up efforts to prevent the deadly infection from spreading into the state.
The government has also initiated plans to intensify public awareness campaigns and strengthen preventive protocols to safeguard residents against the potential threat of the disease.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, disclosed this on Tuesday, October 27, 2026, while briefing pressmen on the outcome of this week’s State Executive Council meeting presided over by Governor Alex Otti.
Prince Kanu explained that the Abia State Ministry of Health had put adequate preventive measures and health protocols in place to protect the state against a possible outbreak, while working towards educating residents on the risks associated with Ebola virus disease and the necessary precautions to avoid infection.
He noted that public awareness remained a critical component of the state’s response, stressing the importance of keeping residents adequately informed about preventive measures and responsible health practices.
According to the Commissioner, the state government was taking proactive steps to ensure that the appropriate health authorities were prepared to respond effectively to any potential threat posed by the disease.
As part of efforts to coordinate the national response, Prince Kanu disclosed that the Abia State Ministries of Health and Information participated in a crucial meeting convened over the weekend by the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate.
He explained that the meeting was organised to familiarise state governments with the Federal Government’s ongoing efforts to contain and manage the outbreak, while strengthening coordination between the federal and state authorities.
The engagement also provided an opportunity for states to align their preventive strategies with national containment efforts and reinforce preparedness measures against the possible spread of the disease.
In a further move to strengthen public health preparedness, the Commissioner revealed that the Abia State Ministry of Health had issued preventive guidelines through its Week 43 health advisory.
The advisory is designed to improve public understanding of Ebola virus disease, promote appropriate hygiene practices and encourage residents to adopt precautionary measures that could help reduce the risk of infection.
Prince Kanu urged residents to remain calm and avoid unnecessary panic, emphasising that public cooperation and adherence to recommended health guidelines would be essential in preventing the disease from spreading.
He encouraged residents to maintain good personal hygiene, remain conscious of their surroundings and avoid large gatherings as much as possible during the period of heightened vigilance.
“Ebola virus disease can be serious and even life-threatening but can be prevented as well.
“Our people are advised not to panic but observe good hygiene practices and as much as possible avoid large crowds at this time,” Prince Kanu said.
The Abia State Government’s response underscores its commitment to protecting public health through preventive action, intergovernmental collaboration and sustained public education.
Residents are expected to remain vigilant, follow official health advisories and cooperate with relevant health authorities as the state continues to strengthen its preparedness against the potential
spread of Ebola virus disease.