The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), has directed churches to provide water, soap and sanitizers for worshippers before and after service, effective from Sunday, March 1.
This, according to the Christian body is to provide some measure of protection against the coronavirus disease which has been confirmed to be Nigeria.
Recall that the first case of the virus in the country was confirmed in Lagos on Thursday night.
CAN appealed to Nigerians, irrespective of religious and political leaning, to follow simple rules of hygiene regularly for safety reasons, and to avoid panic and self medication.
CAN’s directive was communicated via a statement issued in Abuja on Saturday by its acting General Secretary, Joseph Daramola.
The statement read, “CAN urges every church to make water, soap and sanitizers available for worshippers before and after service, beginning Sunday.
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“We appeal to all Nigerians, irrespective of their religious and political persuasions, to embrace simple rules of hygiene regularly for safety reasons.
“We call on the three tiers of government to rise up to the challenge of the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) now that the country has recorded its first case.
“On our part, we will not cease praying until the disease is chased out of our shores.”
Meanwhile, the ArchBishop of Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos, Most Rev. Adewale Martins has also directed Priests, Religious and parishioners in the ArchDiocese to take some measures to protects themselves from the virus during Masses.
In a special circular personally signed by the Archbishop, he said; “In the light of the present circumstance, we hereby instruct as follows, till further notice:
“The shaking of hands during the time for the Sign of Peace during Mass is suspended for the time being.
“During this season of Lent, in order to reduce the number of gatherings in Church to the barest necessary, we encourage people to do Stations of the Cross privately on Wednesdays while public celebrations will take place only Fridays especially as it is often followed by Mass.”
