FAAN Intensifies Ebola Screening At Airports, Reassures Travellers

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) has intensified health surveillance and screening measures at international airports across the country following reports of a recent Ebola outbreak in parts of Central Africa.

FAAN said the enhanced protocols are part of proactive steps to prevent the importation and spread of the virus into Nigeria, while ensuring the safety of airport users and personnel.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by the Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Henry Agbebire, the Authority said it is working closely with the Port Health Services, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), and other relevant agencies to strengthen monitoring at all entry points.

According to FAAN, surveillance has been intensified, particularly for passengers arriving from high-risk regions, with screening procedures now fully in operation across international terminals.

The agency said all arriving passengers are being screened for Ebola-related symptoms, adding that any suspected case will be immediately isolated and managed in line with national and international public health protocols.

“While there is currently no confirmed case of Ebola in Nigeria, FAAN remains vigilant and fully committed to safeguarding public health and maintaining safe airport operations,” the statement said.

FAAN added that emergency response systems have been reinforced, while airport staff have undergone additional sensitisation to ensure early detection and rapid response to potential health threats.

The authority also reassured travellers and stakeholders of its commitment to maintaining safe and secure airport operations amid evolving global health concerns.

Nigeria has in the past implemented heightened border health surveillance during outbreaks in neighbouring countries as part of efforts to prevent cross-border transmission of infectious diseases.