Legislature
Ebola Alert: Akpabio, Senators Push for Emergency Measures and Border Screening
The Senate has ordered compulsory Ebola screening for all international travellers entering Nigeria following concerns over a reported case in Abuja.
The resolution followed a motion sponsored by Senator Francis Ade Fadahunsi, who warned that Nigeria faces a high risk of Ebola importation. He disclosed that about 44 contacts linked to the case had been identified for quarantine and observation.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio expressed concern over reports that the infected traveller from Kenya entered Nigeria without proper screening, warning of the risk of further transmission.
Senator Ali Ndume called for mandatory screening of all international travellers, irrespective of their countries of origin, while Senator Adamu Aliero urged the immediate release of emergency funds from the Service Wide Vote to strengthen containment efforts.
The Senate also called for the replacement of the Quarantine Act of 1926 with a modern public health law. Senator Mohammed Tahir Monguno described the existing law as outdated and called for urgent legislative action.
Lawmakers further directed relevant agencies to equip airports, seaports and designated land borders with trained health personnel, screening equipment and isolation facilities.
Senator Ireti Kingibe stressed the need for adequate resources, while Senator Diket Plang urged public and private institutions to provide sanitisers and other preventive measures.
As part of precautionary measures, Akpabio directed the introduction of temperature checks and hand-washing facilities within the National Assembly.
The Senate urged relevant authorities to strengthen surveillance and emergency preparedness to prevent the spread of Ebola in Nigeria.