The Lagos State Government has conducted a strategic assessment of the Infectious Disease Hospital, also known as Mainland Hospital, Yaba, as part of efforts to strengthen the state’s preparedness for a possible Ebola outbreak.

The Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, said the assessment was carried out in response to the expanding Ebola Virus Disease outbreak in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

He said the Ministry of Health was preparing for possible eventualities by assessing the hospital’s capacity to respond rapidly to and contain a high-consequence outbreak.

Abayomi said the assessment covered critical infrastructure, diagnostic capabilities and clinical support systems required for effective emergency response.

The team inspected the Emergency Operations Centre, laboratory equipment, oxygen supply infrastructure, triage and isolation areas, as well as external site works.

The commissioner said the assessment was aimed at ensuring maximum operational readiness and adequate surge capacity in the event of an outbreak.

He added that immediate maintenance needs were identified in key areas, including the Emergency Operations Centre, biobank, pharmacy, catering facilities and drainage networks.

Abayomi said the measures were necessary to maintain high standards of biosafety and patient care while strengthening Lagos State’s health security architecture.

The development comes as the Democratic Republic of Congo continues to battle a major Ebola outbreak.

According to the report, more than 5,600 confirmed cases and over 2,700 deaths had been recorded in the DRC since the outbreak was declared on May 15, 2026.

The outbreak is driven by the Bundibugyo species of the Ebola virus, for which the report said there are currently no vaccines or treatments.

The Lagos State Government said it would continue to strengthen its emergency preparedness and maintain operational readiness to protect public health.