COVID-19: President Buhari Extends Movement Restriction Across Nigeria For Two Weeks

President Muhammadu Buhari has extended the ongoing movement restrictions (curfew) across Nigeria for another two weeks.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, disclosed this on Monday, at the daily briefing of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19.

According to him, Buhari extended the gradual easing of the lockdown because Nigeria is not yet ready for full opening of the economy due to the coronavirus pandemic.

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The extension of the ongoing restriction will be effective from 12 midnight on Monday, May 18, 2020, to June 1st.

“Ladies and gentlemen, the reality is that in spite of the modest progress made, Nigeria is not yet ready for full opening of the economy and tough decisions have to be taken for the good of the greater majority,” Mr Mustapha said.

“Any relaxation will only portend grave danger for our populace. Advisedly, the current phase of eased restriction will be maintained for another two weeks during which stricter enforcement and persuasion measures will be pursued.

”Based on the recommendations of the PTF, Mr President has approved the following:

”The measures, exemptions, advisories and scope of entities allowed to reopen under phase one of the eased locked down, shall be maintained across the federation for another two weeks effective from 12 00 midnight today (18th May 2020 to 1st June 2020),” Mr Mustapha said.

Based on Mr Mustapha’s announcement, the nationwide curfew and ban on interstate travel will continue from Monday night for another two weeks.

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