By Adamu Yusuf
Senate has called on relervant agencies of government to ensure mandatory
health screening of all international passengers arriving in Nigeria as part of efforts to prevent the spread of Ebola and other infectious diseases.
The call followed a motion of urgent matter of national importance on the reportedly Ebola outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo and the reportedly outbreak of one case in the Federal Capital Territory with concerns over the possible spread of the disease.
Presenting the motion, Senator Francis Fadahunsi said the threat of the lassa fever has been ravaging many states of the federation already and taking preventable measures against ebola virus disease by protecting the nation’s entry points is more cheaper in managing the ebola challenge.
Contributing to the debate, the lawmakers stressed the need for comprehensive screening at all international airports, seaports and designated land borders, irrespective of passengers’ nationalities or countries of departure, noting that infected persons could travel through countries not officially listed as areas of concern.
Senator Diket Plang particularly called for adequate and timely funding for the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention and Port Health Services, including the release of outstanding funds and consideration of emergency budgetary provisions.
The President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, said the Federal Government has already taken some steps towards providing funds for the Ebola response.
He urged the Senate relevant committees to ascertain whether the ebola funds were released and judiciously utilised, adding that any outstanding funds should be made available by the ministry of finance without delay.
Editing by Khadija Kubau
