Joseph Bakare
The Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 has released guidelines for the gradual reopening of the nation’s economy, in line with President Muhammadu Buhari’s directive in his broadcast to the nation.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF); Mr Boss Mustapha, who is also the Chairman of the COVID-19 task force, issued the guidelines at the PTF’s daily briefing in Abuja on Wednesday, April 29.
Mustapha said that the gradual reopening of the economy would span six weeks; broken into three tranches of two weeks each.
This is coming after four weeks of lockdown aimed at containing the spread of the coronavirus pandemic in the country.
Mustapha said that the phased strategy was designed to reduce the pains of socio-economic disruptions; while strengthening public health response.
This, he said, would ultimately reduce the recovery of the nation’s economy and provide succour to the poor and vulnerable groups.
He said that to underscore the collaborative efforts with sub-national levels of government; the COVID-19 task force was encouraged to provide leadership in engaging relevant associations responsible for various sectors.
According to him, following the pronouncement of the President; it has become necessary to provide initial clarifications for Nigerians on some of the new measures such as the overnight curfew; inter-state travels; as well as related matters.
He said: “For the avoidance of doubt, the following clarifications are provided:
“The overnight curfew is applicable nationwide from 8 p.m. to 6 a.m. daily, effective on Monday, May 4, 2020.
“Inter-state travels are banned except for the movement of goods; agro-products; petroleum products; as well as essential services, etc such as directed by Mr. President.’’
The SGF said that the state governments in collaboration with security agencies and relevant trade associations had been advised; to ensure that the aforementioned measures were strictly enforced.
He emphasised that the easing of restrictions and the introduction of revised measures did not amount to the end of the battle against the virus.
On the situation in Kano, he said that the technical team of public health experts sent by the PTF had begun an evaluation of the COVID-19 situation there.
He said that the experts were working in close collaboration with a team constituted by the state government.
“I am pleased to also inform you that the operationalisation of the laboratories in Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital and Bayero University Kano; will considerably improve our response to the pandemic in Kano state.
“Additionally, fifty trucks of assorted grains have been sent to Kano and are due for delivery; within the next 48 hours,” he disclosed.
The SGF added that information on domestic as well as international claims about emerging inventions on COVID-19 had been received.
“These are most welcome, but scientific validation process and protocols will have to be followed.
“We are open to all options for the good of humanity,” he said.
