Lagos Launches ‘Operation BioShield’ as Ebola Alert Rises Across Africa

The Lagos State Government has launched a statewide public awareness campaign, tagged “Operation Lagos BioShield,” to strengthen preparedness against the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) and prevent the possible importation of the deadly virus into the state.

The initiative comes amid ongoing Ebola outbreaks in parts of East and Central Africa, with state authorities emphasizing that there is currently no confirmed case of Ebola in Lagos State or anywhere in Nigeria.

In a statement announcing the campaign, the Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi, said the initiative was designed to improve public awareness, preparedness and prevention efforts rather than respond to an existing health emergency.

“This campaign is not a response to a crisis. It is a proactive measure to strengthen public awareness, preparedness and prevention,” Abayomi stated.

According to the commissioner, the campaign reflects the state government’s commitment to protecting public health through early intervention, strategic communication and sustained disease surveillance.

He explained that the current outbreak affecting parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda involves the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola virus, for which there is presently no widely available licensed vaccine or specific antiviral treatment.

Abayomi stressed that prevention, early detection, rapid isolation and supportive medical care remain the most effective tools for containing the disease.

“Prevention, early detection, rapid isolation, and supportive medical care remain our most effective tools,” he said.

The commissioner noted that public understanding of the disease would be critical in limiting transmission while preventing panic and misinformation.

He clarified that Ebola is not spread through casual contact, explaining that transmission occurs through direct contact with the blood, bodily fluids or contaminated materials of an infected person who is already symptomatic.

According to him, accurate information remains essential to preserving public confidence and preventing the stigmatization of affected individuals or communities.

Abayomi also highlighted Lagos strategic position as Nigeria’s commercial capital and one of Africa’s busiest transport hubs, noting that the state maintains extensive air, land and maritime links with other countries across the continent and beyond.

He disclosed that both the Federal Government and Lagos State Government are working closely with aviation authorities, maritime agencies, border health officials and public health institutions to strengthen surveillance and screening measures at all entry points into the country.

“As Nigeria’s commercial capital and a major regional transport hub, Lagos maintains extensive air, land and maritime connections with the rest of Africa and the world,” he said.

The commissioner further announced that the Ministry of Health would intensify public enlightenment efforts in the coming weeks through a comprehensive awareness campaign focusing on Ebola symptoms, prevention strategies, reporting procedures and protective measures for homes, schools, workplaces and communities.

He urged residents to rely solely on verified information from official sources and to actively support ongoing public health efforts.

Abayomi advised individuals returning from countries affected by the outbreak who develop symptoms such as fever, weakness, vomiting, diarrhoea or unexplained bleeding to immediately seek medical guidance and avoid unnecessary contact with others.

He directed such persons to contact emergency numbers 112 or 767, or reach the State Epidemiologist through +234 802 316 9485 for prompt assistance.

The commissioner also recalled Lagos State’s successful response to the Ebola outbreak of 2014, describing it as evidence of the state’s ability to effectively manage public health emergencies.

“Through strong leadership, effective surveillance, rapid response and the collective efforts of healthcare workers and residents, our State successfully contained Ebola and protected millions of lives.

“Today, we remain prepared, vigilant and committed to safeguarding the health of every Lagosian. Together, we will keep Lagos safe,” he said.

The state government reiterated its commitment to maintaining a high level of preparedness and urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and cooperative as authorities continue monitoring developments across the region.