Lagos activates Ebola response with emergency operations centre after Congo outbreak alert, reinforcing surveillance and preparedness

Lagos activates Ebola response as the state government sets up its Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) Incident Management Structure following the Democratic Republic of Congo’s (DRC) confirmation of a fresh outbreak.

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The decision came after an emergency meeting on 9 September at Mainland Hospital, Yaba, where health experts reviewed the DRC situation—28 suspected cases and 15 deaths, including four health workers—and assessed Lagos’ preparedness.

Dr Olusegun Ogboye, Permanent Secretary at the Lagos State Ministry of Health, represented by Dr Ismail Abdus-Salam, said the move was a “proactive step,” citing Lagos’ vulnerability as Nigeria’s busiest gateway.

He disclosed that the state already has a 14–18 bed isolation facility, functional laboratories, and strengthened surveillance systems.

Training for health workers in infection prevention, case management, laboratory processes, and risk communication is scheduled to begin immediately.

“Preparedness assessment is complete. The isolation centre is ready, surveillance is robust, and laboratory systems are intact,” Ogboye said, adding that fact sheets and advisories would be circulated to public and private health facilities.

He urged residents to remain calm but vigilant, stressing the importance of hand hygiene, environmental sanitation, and early reporting of suspected cases, especially among travellers.

At Murtala Muhammed International Airport, Dr Abdullahi Lawal, head of Port Health Services, confirmed that screening and surveillance have been scaled up. While there are no direct flights from the DRC, passengers from neighbouring countries are being closely monitored.

Lawal noted that immigration, customs, and FAAN staff had been sensitised to spot symptoms, while travellers were being advised on hygiene and early reporting of illness.

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The emergency session was attended by senior health officials, Lagos Biobank, WHO representatives, and surveillance officers, all reaffirming their commitment to prevent Ebola’s re-entry into Nigeria.