The Nigerian government has asked all Government Offices and Schools in the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, except those on essential services, not to open from May 7 to 9, as part of arrangements for the successful hosting of the World Economic Forum on Africa.
President Goodluck Jonathan gave the directive on Friday, five days to the commencement of the forum.
In a statement by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Pius Ayim, the government also said private organisations with large number of staff may also wish to close down.
Mr Ayim said that the decision was aimed at easing the flow of traffic within the city and enable participants carry out their assigned roles and participate actively at the World Economic Forum on Africa.
It is the first time that the forum is being hosted by a West African country and the Nigerian government is doing its best to ensure that the forum was a success.
The theme for the 24th edition of the forum is ‘Forging Inclusive Growth, Creating Jobs’.
It will attract participants, including Heads of Governments and Statesmen, CEOs of global firms, leading financiers and policy and development technocrats, from over 80 countries, providing Nigeria with an immense and unique opportunity for economic and cultural diplomacy.
The president had assured the international community of adequate security.
President Jonathan gave the assurance on Friday a day after a bomb blast in Nyanya killed at list 19 persons and left over 60 injured.
