Ebola: FG says Nigeria virus related to Kenya strain, probes link

The Federal Government has stated that the genomic analysis of the confirmed Ebola Virus Disease case in Nigeria's Federal Capital Territory reveals the virus is genetically linked to a case in Kenya. However, additional investigation is required to confirm an epidemiological connection. Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, made this announcement while providing an update on the situation.

The findings, conducted by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention and the Institute of Genomics and Global Health at Redeemer's University, highlight the importance of scientific data. Nonetheless, Pate emphasized that genetic similarity alone does not establish a direct transmission link between cases. Contact tracing for the identified contacts of the confirmed case is ongoing, with some testing negative and others awaiting results.

The government is enhancing surveillance, laboratory capacity, case management, risk communication, and infection prevention and control measures. Healthcare facilities have been instructed to promptly report suspected cases to public health authorities, while additional training and sensitization for healthcare workers will bolster the implementation of response protocols.

The NCDC director general announced that daily public updates will commence on October 24, 2026. The minister urged Nigerians to remain calm and vigilant, adhere to safety precautions, follow official health guidance, and avoid spreading misinformation. Updates should be obtained from recognized health authorities such as the NCDC, Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, WHO, and Africa CDC.