NCAA releases Ebola protocol for airlines and airport operators

By Dickson Omobola

After Ebola Virus Disease (EVD) cases were reported in parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo and Uganda, the Nigerian Civil Aviation Authority (NCAA) has instructed airlines and airport operators to enhance public health surveillance.

The NCAA confirmed that no case linked to the outbreak has been detected in Nigeria. It is working with the Federal Ministry of Health, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), Port Health Services, and international health agencies to monitor the situation.

In a circular dated 18 May 2026, the NCAA explained that the directive was prompted by growing concerns about the disease’s spread and the aviation sector’s key role in preventing cross‑border transmission.

The authority listed Ebola symptoms, including sudden fever, severe fatigue, persistent headache, vomiting, abdominal pain, and bleeding manifestations such as nosebleeds or vomiting blood.

Early detection and immediate reporting are deemed essential to stop international spread, the NCAA said.

As part of preventive measures, airport disease‑surveillance systems have been strengthened, and contact‑tracing, case‑reporting mechanisms and border‑health screening procedures are being reinforced.

Pilots are required to notify Air Traffic Control of any suspected communicable disease cases on board, in accordance with Nigerian Civil Aviation Regulations. Flight crew must complete and submit Aircraft General Declaration forms for all suspected cases, and airlines must ensure passenger locator forms are completed and handed over to Port Health Services upon arrival.

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