The Federal Government has directed agencies under the Ministry of Information and National Orientation to intensify public awareness about Ebola Virus Disease. The directive follows confirmation of a case involving a woman who recently travelled to Abuja from Uganda.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, instructed the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN), Voice of Nigeria (VON) and News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) to educate Nigerians on prevention measures.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) confirmed the case on Tuesday. Authorities identified 44 close contacts for monitoring as part of efforts to prevent further transmission.
The woman is receiving treatment in isolation, while public health officials continue tracing people who may have been exposed to the virus.
The directive highlights the importance of clear public communication during health emergencies. Similar community outreach efforts feature in CSDA’s sensitisation exercise across six Enugu communities.
Idris Calls for Accurate Ebola Information
Idris said accurate and timely information would help contain the disease and prevent public panic. His Special Assistant on Media, Rabiu Ibrahim, disclosed the directive in a statement issued on Thursday.
“The Federal Government is taking every necessary step to contain this case and protect Nigerians. Accurate and timely information is one of our strongest defences,” the minister said.
He directed the agencies to provide clear information on how Ebola spreads, how people can protect themselves and where to report suspected cases.
Idris also ordered the agencies to work closely with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and the NCDC. He said public information about the outbreak must remain verified and evidence-based.
The ministry’s approach places public enlightenment at the centre of its response. For related coverage on government communication, see Mbah’s call for the media and government to meet at the point of truth.
NOA to Lead Grassroots Ebola Sensitisation
The minister tasked the NOA with using its nationwide offices to reach communities across Nigeria. The agency will work with traditional rulers, religious leaders, community groups and the media.
The ministry also plans to strengthen engagement with broadcast organisations, including the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria. The collaboration will support the wider distribution of verified information about Ebola prevention and containment.
According to the statement, the agencies will produce and broadcast public enlightenment jingles. They will also develop information, education and communication materials in Nigerian languages.
The initiative aims to help people in different communities understand the risks and prevention measures. It also seeks to limit confusion that can arise when unverified reports circulate during a public health emergency.
Community engagement remains an important part of public awareness campaigns. Readers can also explore Enugu’s efforts to sustain development gains and the report on grassroots development in Igbo-Eze South.
FG Warns Against Unverified Ebola Claims
Idris urged Nigerians to remain calm and rely on information from official sources. He also warned against sharing unverified claims about the outbreak on social media.
The minister encouraged members of the public to report suspected cases promptly through the NCDC’s toll-free, 24-hour emergency line, 6232.
The government said verified information would help people understand the situation and take appropriate precautions. The directive also seeks to ensure that communities receive consistent messages from trusted sources.
Public confidence often depends on timely and credible communication during emergencies. Related reports include the FCC commissioner’s message about access to federal jobs and Enugu security agencies’ assurance ahead of local government elections.
Agencies to Coordinate With Health Authorities
The information ministry said its agencies must coordinate with health authorities to ensure the public receives accurate guidance. The plan combines broadcast announcements, community outreach and educational materials in local languages.
The government’s response follows the confirmation of the Abuja case and the identification of close contacts for monitoring. Health authorities are continuing their response while the information agencies work to increase public awareness.
Nigerians have been advised to follow official updates and report suspected cases through the designated emergency channel. The government has stressed that accurate information remains essential to preventing panic and supporting containment efforts.
For further coverage of public programmes and government initiatives, read about the South-East agro-development programme launched in Enugu and the community support initiative involving six Enugu communities.
