In response to the coronavirus pandemic which has hamstrung economic activities across the globe and set health workers in a race against time, the federal government has ramped up containment measures that may indicate the nation is heading towards total lockdown.
Since the outbreak of COVID – 19 in China late last year, health workers have been battling to find a cure or at least a vaccine to curtail its spread, at the same time fervently battling to save the lives of growing numbers of those already infected.
The federal government yesterday announced the closure of all land borders, the indefinite suspension of the federal executive council meeting and the postponement of the council of state meetings.
The government has also issued a stay at home order to all public servants below level 12 until the situation improves.
The federal government said it will also enforce the social distancing policy especially on gatherings above fifty persons.
All these recommendations were put forward by the presidential task force on containing the spread of coronavirus in Nigeria.
Nigerian Governors Forum has also postponed indefinitely an emergency meeting scheduled for Wednesday to deliberate on coping with the crash in crude oil price and the 2020 budget review.
The indefinite suspension was as a result of the ravaging COVID -19 that has already forced the Bauchi State Governor to self-Isolate.
The Governors are worried about the dwindling global economic fortunes and its impact on states’ funds, especially as it may likely affect workers’ salaries and also stall major infrastructure projects in their respective states.
The presidency further directed that if and when the need arises, any national asset required for use in the response to COVID-19 shall be mobilized and deployed.
An assurance was also given that at the highest level, engagements with state governors in order to ensure a collaborative and effective response to COVID19, were ongoing.
All Abuja and Lagos residents are also strongly advised to stay at home, avoid mass congregation of any kind as well as non-essential outings until further advice is given.
