The Federal Government yesterday announced the extension of the gradual easing of the COVID-19 lockdown across the country by two additional weeks.
Disclosing this in Abuja the Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, Boss Mustapha, who also doubles as the Secretary of the Government of the Federation during the COVID-19 daily briefing said that “as at midnight on Sunday, May 31, 2020, Nigeria recorded 10,162 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 3,007 discharges and 287 deaths.
“Significantly, Nigeria recorded 553 new cases on Saturday, May 30, 2020, representing the highest single-day numbers, ever.”
According to him, based on the overall assessment, including available data on the public health considerations and resultant economic impacts, the PTF is of the opinion that: “Nigeria is ready to allow SCIENCE and DATA determine her cautious advancement into the second phase of the eased lockdown for a period of four weeks.
“After considering all factors mentioned above, the PTF submitted its recommendations and President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the following for implementation over the next four weeks spanning June 2 to June 29, 2020, subject to review.”
Mustapha gave cautious advice into the Second Phase of the national response to COVID-19: “Application of science and data to guide the targeting of areas of ongoing high transmission of COVID-19 in the country.
“This means mobilisation of all resources at State and Local Government levels to create public awareness on COVID 19 and improve compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions within communities.
“Sustenance of key non-pharmaceutical interventions that would apply nationwide and include:
Ban of gatherings of more than 20 people outside of a workplace.
“Relaxation of restriction on places of Worship based on guidelines issued by the PTF and Protocols agreed by State Governments
“Managed access to markets and locations of economic activity to limit the risk of transmission. Ban on inter-state travels except for movement of agricultural produce, petroleum products, manufactured goods and essential services;
“Mandatory use of non-medical face masks in public places; Mandatory provision of hand washing facilities/sanitisers in all public places
