The Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, has directed public information agencies to intensify education and awareness campaigns following the confirmation of an Ebola Virus Disease case in the Federal Capital Territory.
The directive was issued to the National Orientation Agency, Nigerian Television Authority, Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria, Voice of Nigeria and News Agency of Nigeria.
According to the Ministry, the confirmed case involves a woman who recently travelled to Abuja from Uganda. She is currently in isolation and receiving treatment, while health authorities have identified and begun monitoring her contacts.
The minister urged the agencies to work closely with the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention to ensure that all public messaging is accurate, timely and evidence-based.
He also directed the National Orientation Agency to use its nationwide structure for grassroots sensitisation, in collaboration with traditional and religious leaders, community groups and the media.
The Ministry said it would strengthen engagement with broadcast organisations, including the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria, to support the production and airing of Ebola prevention jingles and the development of information materials in Nigerian languages.
“Accurate and timely information is one of our strongest defences,” Idris said, urging the agencies to provide clear guidance on how Ebola spreads, how people can protect themselves and where suspected cases should be reported.
The minister appealed to Nigerians to remain calm, rely on official sources and avoid sharing unverified information on social media.
Members of the public have been advised to report suspected cases immediately by calling the NCDC’s toll-free 24-hour emergency line on 6232.
