Ebola Alert: Abuja Chamber of Commerce Warns Businesses as It Demands Strict Prevention Measures

The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has urged businesses, workers and residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to increase awareness of Ebola prevention measures and comply with official public health guidelines.

The chamber’s Director-General, Mr Agabaidu Jideani, made the call in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja by its Media and Strategy Officer, Mrs Olayemi John-Mensah.

Jideani urged individuals, business owners and communities to remain vigilant, maintain good hygiene and report suspected Ebola cases promptly through the appropriate public health channels.

He said preventing disease outbreaks was important not only for protecting lives but also for maintaining economic activities and business operations.

“Protecting public health is essential to sustaining business operations, safeguarding lives and preserving economic stability,” he said.

Businesses Warned About Economic Disruptions From Disease Outbreaks

Jideani said disease outbreaks could affect commercial activities, trade, workforce productivity, supply chains and livelihoods.

He called on employers to raise awareness among their workers, improve workplace hygiene practices and ensure that information about Ebola prevention came from credible official sources.

He also urged ACCI staff to exercise caution and comply with public health directives to protect employees, visitors and the wider business community.

According to him, coordinated action by businesses, workers and communities is necessary to reduce health risks and minimise disruptions to economic activities.

ACCI Outlines Key Ebola Prevention Measures

The ACCI director-general advised residents to avoid direct contact with the blood and other body fluids of people suspected or confirmed to have Ebola.

He also recommended regular handwashing with soap and water or the use of alcohol-based hand sanitisers as part of routine hygiene practices.

Jideani cautioned members of the public against handling bats, monkeys and other wild animals that could carry infections.

He urged residents to remain alert to possible cases and follow instructions issued by the relevant public health authorities.

Residents Told to Contact NCDC Before Seeking Treatment for Suspected Cases

Jideani advised anyone who suspects an Ebola case to seek guidance from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) through its official communication channels.

He said suspected cases should not be taken to health facilities without prior instructions from public health authorities.

According to him, following official guidance would support appropriate case management and help reduce the risk of further transmission.

He also stressed the importance of accurate information and responsible communication, warning against the circulation of unverified claims about Ebola.

Chamber Calls for Collective Action to Protect Public Health

Jideani said protecting public health required shared responsibility among businesses, employees, community leaders and other stakeholders.

He encouraged employers to strengthen hygiene measures at workplaces and ensure that staff members were familiar with official preventive guidelines.

The chamber reaffirmed its commitment to promoting a safe and resilient business environment while supporting efforts to protect lives and livelihoods.

“Collective preventive action is essential to protecting lives, safeguarding livelihoods and minimising avoidable disruptions to economic activities,” Jideani said.