Don’t Mistake Relaxation For COVID-19 Victory, FG Warns Nigerians

The Nigerian government has called on its citizens to take responsibility in the fight against coronavirus (COVID-19) in the country.

In his remarks on Thursday at the briefing of the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19, Mr Boss Mustapha warned the people that the nation has yet to win the fight against the outbreak.

“​One significant observation the PTF wishes to make is that the new rise in cases is to be expected as nations start to ease restrictions.

“We shall, however, proceed with caution and we shall not hesitate to change course when the need arises,” said Mustapha who is the PTF Chairman and Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF).

He added, “What this means is that Nigerians should never mistake the relaxation by government as a signal that the COVID-19 battle had been concluded.”

The PTF chairman revealed that the government has joined the world in emphasising that the best way to manage the pandemic was the comprehensive approach.

He stressed the need for the people to play their parts by observing physical distancing, keeping personal hygiene, wearing face masks, avoiding large gatherings, and staying at home when not necessary to go out.

According to the SGF, the PTF and collaborating agencies will continue to work on finding, isolating, testing, tracing contacts, communicating, and treating for COIVD-19.

He gave an assurance that the health workers would be equipped and trained while communities would be empowered to protect themselves.

Mustapha thanked Nigerians for their patience and understanding and urge them to strictly abide with the COVID-19 protocols, especially regarding the gradual resumption of domestic flights.

He said, “Following the announcement of the extension of phase two and some new measures on Monday, the Aviation sector has announced 8th, 11th and 15th of July as dates for the gradual resumption of domestic flights.

“In the aviation industry, safety and security are paramount and there is only one global aviation standard.”