The Federal Ministry of Health has reassured Nigerians that the newly detected COVID-19 variant XEC has not been identified within the country, urging citizens to remain calm and continue practicing personal hygiene.
In a press statement released by Alaba Balogun, the Deputy Director of Information and Public Relations, the Ministry debunked recent reports suggesting the variant’s presence in Nigeria, describing them as “false and misleading.”
The statement specifically addressed concerns raised by a circulating letter bearing the reference number DHS/INSPDIV/017/VOL.1/46, dated December 5, 2024. The letter, which has been widely shared on social media, had fueled public anxiety by insinuating that the highly virulent strain had been detected in the country.
“The COVID-19 variant XEC, first reported in Australia, has spread to 29 countries globally and is considered more virulent than existing strains. However, the Ministry confirmed that there is currently no evidence of its presence in Nigeria,” Balogun said.
To mitigate the risks posed by the global spread of the XEC variant, the Ministry assured Nigerians that it has stepped up surveillance efforts, particularly at the nation’s borders and airports.
“Federal Tertiary Hospitals have also been upgraded with molecular laboratories, isolation centers, and intensive care units equipped with ventilators to handle potential outbreaks,” the statement added.
The Ministry emphasized that these measures are part of its broader strategy to safeguard public health and prevent the entry and spread of new COVID-19 variants in the country.
Despite the heightened global concern surrounding the XEC variant, the Ministry urged Nigerians to avoid panic and focus on preventive measures. Citizens were encouraged to maintain universal precautions, including regular handwashing, the use of hand sanitizers, and general personal hygiene.
“We advise the general public not to panic but to continue observing universal precautions,” the statement read.
The XEC variant, which was first reported in Australia earlier this year, has been classified by health experts as more transmissible and virulent than other existing COVID-19 strains. Its rapid spread to 29 countries has raised global alarm, prompting governments worldwide to implement enhanced monitoring and preventive strategies.
However, the Ministry reiterated that Nigeria remains free of the variant and that authorities are committed to maintaining this status through proactive measures.
The Ministry also called for public cooperation, urging citizens to report any misinformation to relevant authorities and rely on verified updates from credible sources.
