President Muhammadu Buhari has signed the bill establishing the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) into law. Prior to its passage on 21st November 2018, the agency had operated without a legal enactment for the last 7 years.
NCDC was created in 2011 to respond to the challenges of public health emergencies and enhance Nigeria’s preparedness and response to epidemics through prevention, detection and control of communicable diseases. During this period, the agency has led responses to diseases outbreaks such as cholera, yellow fever and Meningitis among others in the country.
Prior to its passage by President Buhari, Sen. Mao Ohuabunwa (PDP: Abia), Chairman, Senate Committee on Primary Healthcare and Communicable Disease had canvassed for the legal recognition of the agency due to the significance of its functions and the role it is anticipated to play. Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu who assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer on 15 August 2016 leads the Agency.