THE Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare has directed relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), health institutions and other stakeholders to ensure strict compliance with the Federal Government-approved Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) entry protocols at all Nigeria’s designated points of entry.
The directive was conveyed in circular number PS/FMOH/08/VIII/48, dated October 22, and signed by the Permanent Secretary, Daju Kachollom S., on behalf of the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate.
This followed concerns communicated to the minister by the Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA) regarding reported non-compliance with the approved EVD entry protocols.
The ministry stressed the need for consistent, effective and non-discriminatory enforcement of the measures to mitigate the risk of cross-border transmission and protect public health and national security.
Under the directive, relevant institutions are required to ensure strict adherence to prescribed screening procedures, health declaration requirements, surveillance measures and other applicable entry protocols.
The ministry called for strengthened coordination, communication and information-sharing among responsible agencies to support effective surveillance, early detection and prompt response to potential public health threats.
To strengthen compliance and accountability, concerned institutions are required to promptly document and report actual or attempted breaches of the approved protocols through established channels, provide the necessary support to enforcement officials and establish effective monitoring mechanisms to identify and address lapses.
It also stressed that personnel responsible for enforcing the protocols must be allowed to discharge their duties professionally and without undue interference.
Meanwhile, the ministry has directed the immediate and widespread dissemination of the circular to relevant departments, units, field offices and personnel to ensure that all concerned institutions understand their responsibilities and take prompt action to address identified lapses.
It urged all relevant institutions to accord the directive the highest priority and sustain compliance with the approved EVD entry protocols, adding that effective implementation, inter-agency coordination and accountability remain essential to strengthening Nigeria’s preparedness against cross-border health threats and safeguarding the health and safety of the population.
