Nigeria’s response to an imported case of Bundibugyo virus disease shows the need for coordinated communication to build public trust.
The country confirmed the case on October 20, 2026, with ongoing investigations into the patient’s travel history and potential exposures.
Clear communication manages public anxiety
Effective communication during an outbreak shapes public trust and cooperation. Nigeria’s experience with the COVID-19 pandemic highlights the importance of treating communication as a key part of the public health response.
Initial announcements by Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare (FMoHSW) and the World Health Organization (WHO) on October 20 mentioned recent travel from Uganda.
However, Uganda’s Health Ministry later clarified that the patient had traveled to eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) for business, transiting through Uganda. Public health authorities must distinguish between verified information and preliminary findings, explaining what remains under investigation. Balancing transparency with respect for the patient’s privacy is also essential to avoid stigmatization.
Coordinated messaging unifies the response
Nigeria’s presidential task force, chaired by Chief of Staff Femi Gbajabiamila, has a communications subcommittee led by Information Minister Mohammed Idris. On October 22, Idris directed public information agencies to expand public education using verified health guidance.
The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) activated its national Emergency Operations Centre in alert mode by May 28. Health Minister Professor Muhammad Ali Pate clarified that genetic similarities between the viruses identified in Nigeria and Kenya did not, by themselves, establish a direct transmission link.
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The NCDC plans to provide short daily public updates, starting October 24. However, different agencies issuing separate press statements with varying details can create the impression of a fragmented response.
A designated lead for outbreak communications, supported by a protocol for verifying and sharing information, is necessary to build public confidence. The Information Ministry and other agencies should disseminate consistent messages through their channels.
Regional and international health partners, including the WHO and Africa CDC, play key roles in outbreak investigation and response, especially with cross-border movements. Establishing channels for rapid clarification of discrepancies helps avoid contradictory public accounts.
Nigeria’s COVID-19 response provides a model for coordinated communication. The Presidential Task Force (PTF) offered a recognizable platform, bringing together officials from various agencies through regular briefings and updates.
The NCDC and National Orientation Agency can monitor social media, identify emerging questions, and respond through appropriate channels. Public concerns about referral pathways, testing access, and care costs must be addressed beyond message correction.
Community leaders and health workers can help explain risks and precautions in local languages. Clear instructions on reporting symptoms, contact monitoring, and confidentiality protection are essential for public cooperation.
As of now, there is only one confirmed case, but investing in public trust strengthens Nigeria’s chances of stopping transmission.
