By Okey Ebo, Benin
The member representing Orhionmwon/Uhunmwode Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Hon. Chief Dr. Billy Adesuwa Osawaru, has called on the Federal Government to intensify measures aimed at preventing the outbreak of the Bundibugyo strain of the Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) in Nigeria.
Osawaru made the call while seconding a Motion of Urgent Public Importance on the floor of the House of Representatives, stressing the need for proactive strategies to safeguard public health against the emerging threat.
He noted that available medical data indicate that there is currently no approved vaccine specifically developed for the Bundibugyo strain, making prevention, preparedness, and rapid response essential.
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The lawmaker urged the Federal Government, through relevant Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs), to strengthen disease surveillance systems, border health security, emergency response frameworks, and public awareness campaigns to reduce the risk of the virus entering the country.
According to him, Nigeria must remain vigilant in light of increasing cross-border movements, international travel, trade, and commerce, which could facilitate the importation of the deadly virus if adequate safeguards are not maintained.
Osawaru commended the sponsor of the motion, Hon. Amobi Ogah, for drawing national attention to what he described as a looming public health concern.
He also paid tribute to the late Dr. Stella Adadevoh, whose courage and professional dedication were instrumental in containing Nigeria’s first Ebola outbreak in 2014.
The federal lawmaker further lauded the Federal Ministry of Health, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC), and international development partners for their coordinated efforts in tackling the country’s previous encounter with Ebola, which was introduced by an infected Liberian traveller.
Warning that the Bundibugyo virus remains a rare but highly dangerous variant of Ebola, Osawaru stressed that the absence of a widely approved vaccine or specific treatment heightens the need for sustained vigilance and strategic preparedness.
He concluded by formally seconding the motion and reaffirming his commitment to supporting policies and initiatives aimed at protecting the health and well-being of Nigerians.
