CALABAR, Nigeria (FN), Health authorities in Cross River State have confirmed a fresh case of COVID-19, prompting the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) to intensify response efforts in the region.
Officials said the patient, a 53-year-old Chinese expatriate employed by Lafarge in Akamkpa Local Government Area, tested positive after developing mild symptoms earlier this month. He arrived in Nigeria on March 17 and is currently in stable condition at the University of Calabar Teaching Hospital’s isolation unit.
In response, the state government reactivated its Emergency Operations Centre, while the NCDC deployed rapid response teams to conduct contact tracing, surveillance, and infection prevention measures. Authorities also launched risk communication campaigns to reassure residents and counter misinformation.
This marks the first confirmed COVID-19 case in Cross River since 2022, underscoring the persistence of sporadic infections despite declining national case numbers. Nigeria recorded its first COVID-19 case in 2020, leading to nationwide lockdowns and more than 3,000 deaths. While vaccination and public health measures have reduced transmission, experts warn that global travel and evolving variants continue to pose risks.
Similar sporadic cases have been reported in other states in recent months, though most have been contained quickly. Health officials emphasize that such infections are expected in the post-pandemic phase but stress that Nigeria’s surveillance systems remain functional and responsive.
Authorities urge residents to maintain hygiene practices, wear masks in crowded areas, and seek medical care if unwell.
