Nigeria has confirmed an Ebola case in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja, with health authorities identifying 44 people who may have been exposed to the virus as efforts to prevent further transmission intensify.
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, announced the development on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, following laboratory confirmation of the infection.
According to the information released by health authorities, the patient is a woman who recently travelled to Nigeria from Uganda on an international flight. She reportedly developed symptoms on October 7 and sought medical attention at a private hospital in Abuja on October 11.
The woman is currently in isolation and receiving medical care, while public health officials work to identify and monitor individuals who may have come into contact with her.
The 44 identified contacts reportedly include healthcare workers, patients, caregivers and travel contacts. Authorities are monitoring potential exposures and strengthening surveillance to prevent further transmission.
The Federal Government has also intensified infection prevention and control measures at the affected hospital and urged healthcare facilities nationwide to remain vigilant, promptly isolate suspected cases and report them to the appropriate health authorities.
The infection has been identified as the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus. Investigations are ongoing to establish the likely source of infection and determine the patient’s exposure history.
The government has urged Nigerians to remain calm, follow official public health advisories and cooperate with health officials as contact tracing and surveillance continue.