Buhari Extends COVID-19 Lockdown In Nígeria, Orders Compulsory Use Of Face Masks Nationwide

President Muhammadu Buhari on Thursday ordered the compulsory use of face masks in public places across the country.

The Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, Boss Mustapha, who disclosed this at the daily briefing of the task force in Abuja, said the president directed state governments and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to enforce the order.

Mustapha said the president also approved that the current phase of the National Response to COVID-19 be maintained for another four weeks, but with some modifications.

“I’m 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 expatiate upon later, the Phase Two of the eased lockdown be extended by another 4 weeks with effect from Tuesday, June 30, 2020, through Midnight of Monday, July 27, 2020,” he said.

“President Buhari also asked the PTF to partner with states and local governments to improve community sensitisation and engagement to step up response to the COVID-19 response.

“He also encouraged state governments to collaborate with local government authorities to intensify necessary measures such as contact tracing, grassroots mobilisation and risk communication.

“He also ordered that collaboration with other mandate groups at federal/state levels to harmonise the country’s COVID-19 response be strengthened on the short, medium and long-term basis,” he said.

Mustapha warned against stigmatisation and skepticism among Nigerians in the fight against the pandemic.

“I wish to remind all Nigerians that this fight is for everyone; everyone must take responsibility.

“Disbelief and skepticism will further complicate our situation; we should not stigmatise anyone infected. Our communities should own the response and educate our citizens,” he added.

KanyiDaily recalls that the phase two of the ease of lockdown was due last week, but the sallah celebration forced the Nigerian Government to extend it by one week, from July 29 to August 6, 2020.