The Nigerian government on Saturday revealed that the genomic analysis of the confirmed index case of Ebola Virus Disease discovered in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), indicates that the virus is genetically related to the virus identified in some cases found in Kenya.
The minister of Health, Prof. Muhammada Ali Pate who spoke to the media while giving update on the index case stated that further investigations are still being carried out to establish an epidemiological link between the viruses.
According to minister, “The findings provide important scientific information, while further investigations are required to establish whether the two cases are epidemiologically linked.”
Prof Pate said that the analysis was carried out by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, (NCDC), and the Institute of Genomics and Global Health (IGH), at Redeemer’s University, Ede, led by Dr. Christian Happi, a renowned of professor of Molecular Biology and Genomics in the Department of Biological Sciences. Happi had led initial study of the Ebola virus outbreak in West Africa.
Explaining the preliminary investigation outcomes, the minister states that “The findings provide important scientific information, while further investigations are required to establish whether the two cases are epidemiologically linked.”
The minister commended both institutions for their speed and scientific rigour, while reiterating that genetic relatedness between viruses does not, in itself, establish a direct transmission link between cases.
On contact tracing, Pate stated that “identified contacts of the confirmed case remain under active monitoring. Some have tested negative, while results for others are still pending”.
He said the Federal Government was strengthening surveillance, laboratory capacity, case management, risk communication and infection prevention and control.
“Healthcare facilities have been reminded to promptly identify and report suspected cases to public health authorities, while additional training and sensitisation for healthcare workers will support the effective implementation of response protocols,” he added.
He announced that the director general of the NCDC stated that the agency would begin issuing short daily updates to the public from 24 October 2026.
“Remain calm and vigilant, observe all recommended safety precautions, follow official public health guidance and avoid spreading misinformation or unverified reports,” the minister urged Nigerians.
He advised the public to obtain updates from recognised health authorities, including the NCDC, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the World Health Organization, WHO, and the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, Africa CDC.