FG Approves N21.2m for Each State to Support Ebola Outbreak Preparedness, Response Activities

Nigeria's federal government is taking proactive steps to enhance the nation's defense against potential health emergencies, including the Ebola Virus Disease. The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, has approved the release of State Outbreak Investigation and Response Funds (S-OIRF) to all states. Each state will receive N21.2 million, intended to bolster their capacities for outbreak preparedness and response activities.

This initiative aims to complement existing efforts, such as the work of the Presidential Task Force on Ebola Preparedness and Other Health Threats. The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) is tasked with the immediate disbursement of 50 percent of the allocated S-OIRF. Minister Pate stressed the importance of timely access to these critical funds while also emphasizing accountability and prudent management of public resources. States are directed to retire outbreak-response funds within six months of disbursement.

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Preparedness remains one of the most effective tools in protecting public health. While it is important that states have timely access to resources needed to strengthen outbreak preparedness and response capacities, it is equally important that public funds are managed responsibly and accounted for in line with established regulations.

While Nigeria currently has no confirmed cases of Ebola, the government is prioritizing preparedness. This special dispensation aims to ensure states have the necessary resources for surveillance, preparedness, and rapid response should a public health emergency arise. The approval underscores the government's commitment to both health security and financial transparency, reinforcing its dedication to preventing, detecting, and responding effectively to public health threats.

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This approval reflects our commitment to both health security and accountability. We will continue to support states to strengthen their capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to public health threats while ensuring transparency in the use of public resources.