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Nigeria to host regional center for disease control

Xinhua, July 23, 2015 Adjust font size:

Nigeria has volunteered to serve as the regional Center for the Disease Control for the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), a statement from the health ministry said on Wednesday.

The Nigeria Center for Disease Control (CDC) would enhance and strengthen health systems in the region, the statement added.

The statement said Nigeria's Center for Disease Control was recognized to serve as the ECOWAS Regional CDC, in recognition of Nigeria's role in the fight against the Ebola Virus Disease.

It added that the center was envisaged as a health security tool for the region as it was owned by the Member States with support from the African Union (AU) and other development partners.

According to the statement, regional centers for disease control or designated institutions selected by various regional organizations would work in collaboration with the continental center for disease control when established.

Nigeria is ready to share its experiences in establishing its CDC and its role in the establishment of the ECOWAS Regional CDC, the statement added, noting that the ministry will also support the establishment of the proposed African Center for Disease Control (ACDC).

The African Union Assembly officially endorsed the establishment of the Africa CDC with the responsibility of promoting the prevention and control of diseases in Africa.

The African CDC is also expected to serve as a platform for Member States to share knowledge, exchange lessons learned, build capacity and provide technical assistance to one another. Endit