FCTA STEPS UP EBOLA AWARENESS, TAKES SENSITISATION CAMPAIGN TO COMMUNITIES.

By: Khadijat Kawunda

The Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) has intensified efforts to protect residents against Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) and other infectious diseases through a two-day motorised public awareness campaign across the Territory.

The campaign, held on Thursday, 29th and Friday, 30th October 2026, was organised by the Health Services and Environment Secretariat (HSES), through the FCT Public Health Department, in collaboration with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), with support from UNICEF and other partners and stakeholders.

The sensitisation exercise reached several locations, including Area 10 UTC Market, Area 1 Mechanic Car Park, Gudu Market, Wuse Market, Central Business Area, the Ministry of Health area, Jabi, Lifecamp, Airport Road, Galadimawa Bridge, Car Wash in Lugbe, Goza, Kuje and Police Signpost in Lugbe.

During the campaign, residents were educated on Ebola, its signs and symptoms, modes of transmission, and preventive measures. Health authorities particularly advised residents to watch out for warning signs such as fever, severe headache, muscle pain, weakness, sore throat, vomiting, diarrhoea, abdominal pain and unexplained bleeding.

Residents were urged to seek immediate medical attention and report suspected cases promptly to the appropriate health authorities rather than resorting to self-medication.

The health authorities also reassured residents that there is currently no active case of Ebola Virus Disease in the FCT.

However, they emphasised that continuous disease surveillance, monitoring and contact tracing remain ongoing as part of efforts to ensure early detection and prompt response to any suspected case. Residents were encouraged to remain vigilant, cooperate with health officials, and promptly report symptoms suggestive of the disease.

The sensitisation team also emphasised the importance of avoiding contact with the blood and body fluids of suspected or confirmed cases, maintaining good personal and environmental hygiene, and practising regular handwashing. A practical demonstration of proper handwashing techniques was conducted to reinforce the role of hand hygiene in preventing the spread of infectious diseases.

Beyond Ebola awareness, the campaign also addressed other public health concerns, including diphtheria, rabies and Lassa fever, highlighting preventive measures, vaccination where applicable, early detection and prompt reporting of suspected cases.

The exercise forms part of ongoing efforts by the FCT health authorities to strengthen disease surveillance, promote community engagement and reassure residents that appropriate public health measures are being pursued to prevent and respond to infectious disease threats across the Territory.

The FCT Public Health Department calls on all residents to remain vigilant and take collective responsibility for protecting their communities. Residents are encouraged to practise regular handwashing, maintain good hygiene, avoid contact with the blood and body fluids of suspected Ebola cases, and promptly report anyone showing symptoms suggestive of the disease to the nearest health facility or appropriate health authorities.

The public is also advised to rely on verified information from official health authorities and avoid spreading rumours or unconfirmed reports.

Remember: Early reporting saves lives. Prevention is everyone’s responsibility. Together, we can keep the FCT safe and healthy.