ECOWAS Staff Who Aided Patrick Sawyer Dies In Lagos

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has announced the passing of a staff member of its Lagos Liaison Office, Mr Jatto Asihu Abdulqudir, aged 36.

Mr Abdulqudir, a Protocol Assistant was among those who assisted to a regional meeting, the Liberian delegate, Mr Patrick Sawyer, who died from the Ebola Virus Disease at a Lagos hospital on July 25, 2014.

Mr. Abdulqudir had been under quarantine following the sad incident.

In a statement released on Tuesday, the Commission expressed its gratitude to the Nigerian Government authorities and others who contributed to managing the late official while under quarantine.

“The Management of the Commission wishes to commiserate with Mr. Abdulqudir’s family and colleagues and prays for the repose of his soul.

“Before this sad event, the Commission working in collaboration with Nigerian health authorities, had disinfected all the facilities of the ECOWAS Lagos Liaison Office as part of precautionary measures to safeguard the health, safety and security of staff members, and will continue to monitor the situation.

“Management has also intensified awareness campaign among staff on the deadly virus and uses this opportunity to invoke the spirit of solidarity and mutual assistance.

“The Commission wishes to reassure staff of all Community Institutions all over the entire region that it is taking all necessary steps to guarantee their health and safety.

“Furthermore, Management enjoins all staff members and community citizens in general to intensify the observance of personal hygiene. They should also report any suspected case to health facilities and seek medical advice or attention for the effective containment and defeat of the Ebola disease.

“On the directive of regional leaders, ECOWAS has already set up a Solidarity Fund to fight the disease and has solicited the support contribution of Member States and development partners to the Fund to rid the region of the virus,” the statement read.

The ECOWAS Commission also reiterated its continued commitment to support Member States in confronting the deadly virus.