GENEVA, SWITZERLAND — The World Health Organization () has stated that Nigeria currently faces a relatively low risk of Ebola virus disease compared to countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, where recent outbreaks have raised renewed public health concerns.
The global health body made the clarification while assessing the regional spread and preparedness levels across African countries amid heightened surveillance following new confirmed and suspected Ebola cases in parts of Central and East Africa.
According to the WHO, while Ebola remains a Public Health Emergency of International Concern in certain regions, Nigeria’s current risk level is considered low due to its improved surveillance systems, emergency preparedness structures, and experience gained from successfully containing previous outbreaks.
The organization noted that Nigeria’s rapid response capacity, strengthened laboratory systems, and coordinated disease surveillance networks have significantly improved since the 2014 Ebola outbreak, which was successfully contained within months.
Health experts within the WHO explained that countries like the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda continue to face recurring outbreaks due to persistent transmission risks in border communities, wildlife exposure, and gaps in healthcare infrastructure in certain regions.
In contrast, Nigeria’s classification as a lower-risk country reflects its ability to quickly detect, isolate, and manage potential cases through established protocols at airports, borders, and healthcare facilities.
The WHO emphasized that despite the lower risk level, Nigeria must maintain strict vigilance, especially in monitoring travelers from high-risk regions and strengthening infection prevention and control measures in hospitals.
Public health officials also stressed the importance of continuous public awareness campaigns to ensure early reporting of suspected cases and to prevent misinformation or panic within communities.
Nigeria previously gained international recognition for effectively containing the 2014 Ebola outbreak, during which coordinated efforts by health authorities, contact tracing teams, and international partners helped prevent widespread transmission.
The WHO noted that this experience continues to serve as a model for outbreak response across Africa, reinforcing the importance of rapid detection and strong leadership in managing infectious diseases.
Health authorities in Nigeria have also reiterated their commitment to maintaining surveillance systems and ensuring that emergency response teams remain on alert, particularly at entry points such as airports, seaports, and land borders.
While reassuring the public, the WHO advised countries across the region to avoid complacency, warning that Ebola outbreaks can escalate quickly if not promptly detected and contained.
The organization urged continued investment in healthcare infrastructure, training of frontline workers, and cross-border cooperation to strengthen regional preparedness.
As monitoring continues, the WHO stressed that coordinated international efforts remain essential to preventing the spread of Ebola and protecting vulnerable populations across Africa.
The statement concludes that while Nigeria is not currently a high-risk country, sustained vigilance and preparedness remain critical in safeguarding public health.
