The recent resurgence of the Ebola virus in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) serves as a stark reminder of the persistent threat that infectious diseases pose to public health and economic stability. Given Nigeria’s history with the virus during the 2014 outbreak, the nation must act swiftly and decisively to prevent another crisis. Beyond the immediate health concerns, an Ebola outbreak would have severe economic consequences, affecting trade, investment, and the livelihoods of millions. The economic wisdom in preparedness cannot be overstated—proactive measures will not only save lives but also safeguard Nigeria’s economy from the devastating impact of an uncontrolled epidemic.
The 2014 Ebola outbreak exposed the vulnerability of economies to health crises. In Nigeria, despite the swift containment of the virus, economic activities suffered a temporary setback, with businesses experiencing disruptions, international travel restrictions being imposed, and public fear slowing down commerce. Across West Africa, countries like Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Guinea faced severe economic downturns, with GDP losses running into billions of dollars due to declining trade, reduced foreign investment, and a near-collapse of healthcare systems.
Nigeria’s interconnectedness with the global economy means that any health crisis—particularly one as deadly as Ebola—can trigger significant economic disruptions. A major outbreak would lead to restrictions on trade and travel, weaken investor confidence, and burden an already strained healthcare system. Furthermore, sectors such as aviation, tourism, and hospitality would be hit hard as fear of contagion discourages movement and business activities.
A lesson from the COVID-19 pandemic is that prevention is far more cost-effective than containment. Nigeria must invest in its healthcare infrastructure, strengthen disease surveillance systems, and ensure border security measures to screen travelers from high-risk regions. More importantly, the government should ramp up public awareness campaigns, emphasising early detection and prompt medical intervention. A well-prepared response system will not only minimise the health impact but also prevent panic that often accompanies outbreaks.
Additionally, local research institutions must receive adequate funding to develop rapid diagnostic tools and vaccines. By supporting homegrown scientific advancements, Nigeria can reduce its reliance on external assistance and strengthen its resilience against future outbreaks. The government must also engage with regional and global health bodies to coordinate preparedness efforts, ensuring that the country is not caught off guard.
The economic cost of inaction is far too great. A reactive approach to health crises has proven to be devastating in the past, both in terms of lives lost and financial resources drained. Nigeria must recognise that preparedness is not just a public health necessity but an economic imperative. The resurgence of Ebola in the DRC is a warning that cannot be ignored. The time to act is now.
