Federal Government of Nigeria has extended Phase Two of the eased lockdown by another four weeks, but partially lifted the ban on interstate movement and systematic re-opening of schools.
Chairman of Presidential Taskforce PTF on Covid-19 and Secretary to the Government of the Federation SGF, Mr Boss Mustapha disclosed this at a briefing on Monday in Abuja.
He said within this extended phase, there will also be a safe re-opening of schools to allow graduating students back to classes, while interstate movements would only take place outside curfew hours.
Announcing the new measures, the SGF said; “I am pleased to inform you that Mr. President has carefully considered the 5th Interim Report of the PTF and has accordingly approved that, with the exception of some modifications to be expatiated upon later, the Phase Two of the eased lockdown be extended by another four weeks with effect from Tuesday, June 30, 2020 through Midnight of Monday, 27 July, 2020.
“Specifically, however, the following measures shall either remain in place or come into effect: Maintaining the current phase of the national response for another four weeks in line with modifications to be expatriated by the National Coordinator. They are as follows:
* Permission of movement across State borders only outside curfew hours with effect from 1st July, 2020;
* Enforcement of laws around non-pharmaceutical interventions by States, in particular, the use of face masks in public places;
* Safe re-opening of schools to allow students in graduating classes resume in-person in preparation for examinations and;
* Safe reopening of domestic aviation services as soon as practicable”.
Precision Lockdown In 18 LGAs Imperative
Eighteen local government areas in Nigeria account for 60% of COVID-19 cases and those local government areas have to be locked down to contain the spread of the pandemic in the country.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation said the precision lockdown would be implemented by the government of the states where the 18 local governments reside.
According to the SGF Nigeria has not reached its peak and with 39 molecular labs, the number of infections will continue to rise.
He asked all local authorities including religious and traditional leaders to ensure compliance with nonpharmaceutical interventions.