We are far from the end of COVID-19 in Nigeria, says SGF

Boss Mustapha, secretary to the government of the federation, says COVID-19 outbreak is far from over in Nigeria.

Speaking at the briefing organised by the presidential task force on COVID-19 which he chairs, Mustapha said the increase in number of COVID-19 patients is worrisome.

Nigeria currently has 627 COVID-19 patients, 86 were detected on Sunday, the highest number of cases discovered in Nigeria in a single day.

Mustapha appealed to Nigerians to comply with the lockdown directive, saying the federal government is determined to “flatten the curve”.

“​Given the increase in the number of confirmed cases in the last week, the PTF remains conscious of the fact that we are far from the end of this outbreak in Nigeria. We, therefore, must focus even more vigorously on our strategy of increasing testing, isolating confirmed cases, following up with contacts of cases and managing confirmed cases to recovery,” he said.

“The significant increase in the number of cases and distribution across states underscore the importance of remaining focused as citizens and as a nation because of the enormity of the challenges ahead.

“This is the time for all hands to be on deck so that the PTF can improve on its delivery. We must all come together because we face a common enemy and potential risk. We must flatten the curve at all cost and restore our country to full activity.”

Mustapha also addressed the criticism on the alleged violation of directives of the Nigeria Center for Disease Control (NCDC) at the burial of Abba Kyari, the late chief of staff to President Muhammadu Buhari, saying lessons had been learnt.​

“The PTF recognizes, regrettably, the unintentional violation of the principles and protocols that form the core of our messaging to Nigerians, at the funeral of the late Chief of Staff,” he said.

“These principles for emphasis, include: the guidance provided on mass gatherings; social distancing; personal hygiene; and
​restriction of movements.

“Lessons have been learnt and appropriate measures have been taken to close all gaps. We assure all Nigerians of their safety and the determination of the PTF to combat the pandemic.”