President Muhammadu Buhari
By Abasifreke Effiong
President Muhammadu Buhari has announced an extension of the ongoing lockdown in the Nigeria by 14 days to stem the spread of Coronavirus.
In a broadcast, the President said the extension which applies to Lagos and Abuja, will be effective from 11.59p.m on Monday 13th March.
Buhari said the extension is in the best interest of the nation and appealed to Nigerians to endure a bit more.
Delta state records third confirmed case of Coronavirus
“We have decided to extend the lockdown by 14 days with effect from 11.59p.m on Monday. Through the lockdown, we have been able to stop community spread of COVID-19. We must lose the achievement made so far… I encourage Nigerians to endure a bit more.”
While giving update on the nation’s COVID-19 response, the President said the country has made tremendous success in stemming the spread of the virus and encouraged Nigerians to continue to maintain social distancing.
He said the country has increased its healthcare facilities in response to the pandemic, disclosing that the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja and Lagos state currently have 1000 capacity isolation center each.
Delta state records third confirmed case of Coronavirus
Buhari announced that the federal government is working to build more isolation centers close to airports and seaports and other entry points into the country.
The President also said that he has directed the coordinator of the Social Investment Programme to expand the social register to accommodate one million more households in the palliatives provided.
He said the additional one million households will raise the number of benefiting households from 2.6 million to 3.6 million.
The President lauded state governors for aligning their programmes in response to the COVID-19 with those of the federal government and commended the National Assembly and other donors for the support given in the fight against the pandemic.
He particularly thanked health workers for their sacrifices, described them as “heroes”.
“You are our heroes”, the President said, referring to health workers.
Buhari announced that an inter-ministerial committee to work with the country’s economic team to develop a post – COVID-19 economic recovery plan.
