The Abuja Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ACCI) has called for increased public awareness and strict compliance with official Ebola prevention measures, warning that disease outbreaks could threaten lives, disrupt business activities and undermine economic stability.
The Director-General of ACCI, Mr Agabaidu Jideani, made the call in a public advisory on Ebola prevention, urging individuals, businesses, workers and communities to remain vigilant, maintain good hygiene and promptly report suspected cases through appropriate public health channels.
Jideani stressed that protecting public health was essential to safeguarding lives, sustaining business operations and preserving economic stability.
“Protecting public health is not only about safeguarding lives; it is also essential to sustaining business operations, protecting livelihoods and preserving economic stability,” he said.
He noted that disease outbreaks could have far-reaching consequences for the economy by disrupting commercial activities, workforce productivity, supply chains and livelihoods.
“Any development capable of disrupting business activities or interrupting economic operations can have adverse consequences for the wider economy. This makes preventive action and public cooperation imperative,” Jideani said.
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As part of the preventive measures, the ACCI Director-General advised members of the public to avoid direct contact with the blood and body fluids of suspected or confirmed Ebola cases, wash their hands regularly with soap and water or use alcohol-based hand sanitisers, and avoid handling potentially infected wild animals, including bats and monkeys.
He also urged anyone who suspects an Ebola infection to seek guidance from the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) through its official channels and follow instructions from public health authorities on accessing care.
“Members of the public should rely on official public health guidance whenever Ebola is suspected and avoid actions that could increase the risk of transmission,” he said.
Jideani further urged ACCI staff to remain vigilant, maintain appropriate hygiene practices and comply with public health guidelines issued by competent authorities.
“Workplace vigilance and responsible conduct are necessary to protect employees, business visitors and the wider Chamber community,” he said.
The Chamber reaffirmed its commitment to promoting a safe and resilient business environment, urging residents, employers, workers and community leaders to take preventive measures seriously, avoid spreading unverified information and support efforts to protect lives and livelihoods.
