Reps Demand Release of Health Funds, Stronger Ebola Response After Abuja Case

The House of Representatives has called on the Federal Government to intensify Nigeria’s Ebola prevention and emergency response measures following confirmation of a case in Abuja. The resolution followed a motion sponsored by Amobi Ogah, representing Isuikwuato/Umunneochi Federal Constituency of Abia State, during plenary. Ogah warned that delays in testing suspected cases, isolating infected persons and tracing their contacts could increase the risk of transmission. He also raised concerns over gaps in public awareness, shortages of infection prevention supplies and inadequate emergency response capacity, calling for coordinated action by relevant health agencies and state governments.

The lawmakers request that the Federal Government, through the Ministry of Finance, to release outstanding budgeted funds to health agencies to support disease surveillance, contact tracing, laboratory testing and emergency operations. They also asked the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare and the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention to assess the additional resources needed to improve the country’s preparedness. The House Committee on Infectious Diseases was directed to engage relevant ministries and public health institutions, obtain updates on the Ebola situation and report back to the House for further legislative action.

Written by News Room