The Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Chairman of the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on Covid-19, Boss Mustapha has hinted that Nigeria is no longer in the top five countries by cumulative deaths in Africa as a result of the Covid-19 pandemic.
While warning that the cheering news should not create room for scepticism and nonchalance with regard to the virus as it was still very much in existence.
He added that the European Union (EU) and the Federal Government were still perfecting control measures regarding flights into Nigeria,especially as daily passengers into Nigeria soars to 4,500.
According to him; “Although Nigeria is no longer in the top five countries by cumulative deaths in Africa, the PTF continues to urge Nigerians to change their attitude of scepticism and nonchalance to the virus. For the avoidance of doubts, the virus is real, ferocious and deadly.
“To date, Nigeria has recorded 59,738 confirmed cases and 1,113 fatalities. The PTF is fully conscious, but not deceived, by the fact that our recovery rate is high and very encouraging. We still urge, however, that everyone should get tested because testing is the only way to detect, isolate, trace and treat.
“Media reports have suggested that many Nigerians do not trust the government and its agencies. We need to continue to build mutual trust between government and the governed if successes already recorded are to be sustained in the fight against COVID-19.
He continued; ” The PTF and relevant agencies are working with the European Union on the issue of flights into Nigeria. As soon as negotiations are completed, Nigerians will be informed accordingly. For flights currently allowed into Nigeria, we are seeing a combined number of 4,500 arriving passengers per day into Lagos and Abuja.
“Let me remind all Nigerians that like our diamond anniversary celebration, the COVID-19 has made year 2020 a most significant year for us in Nigeria. We need to do all we can to survive it and we have the solutions in our hands. Together let us take responsibility”.
