The Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 has said that the federal government is closely monitoring four states – Kano, Osun, Oyo and Edo, to ensure that more cases are discovered and increasing community transmission is curtailed.
It said it is in talks with the state governments, particularly with Kano, considering the increasing number of cases in the state.
The National Coordinator of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, Dr. Sani Aliyu, stated this on Tuesday at the daily briefing in Abuja.
According to him, “Because we are increasing the number of tests, as we ramp up, there is the possibility that we will continue to have more and more cases coming here.
“We do note the concern about increased reporting of cases – we are closely monitoring Kano, Osun, Oyo and Edo. We note the particular concern with Kano and we have engaged closely with the state government.
“With regards to state engagement, we continue to engage collaboratively with state governments on the pandemic response. The task force will continue to provide necessary assistance to States to ensure adequate sensitisation.
“I would like to re-emphasize the need for complying with the lockdown policy particularly for those two states of Lagos and Ogun, as well as the FCT.”
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He added: “We continue to urge you to use face masks as an optional addition to the routine measures of physical distancing, avoiding mass gatherings and respiratory hygiene.
“In Line with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) face mask policy, I will advise Nigerians to make do-it-yourself (DIY) face masks; not only are they cheaper but they are also more colourful.
“We do recognise the Nigerian creative and enterprising spirit already at work with so many people already making use of local fabrics. We will like to urge you to continue to adapt your procedures for improvised mask usage and maintenance based on the NCDC guidelines.”
According to the Minister of State for Health, Dr. Adeleke Mamora, “We have intensified efforts in risk communication at grassroots level. The need to avoid mass gatherings without protecting yourself cannot be overemphasized. The use of face masks or face barrier that covers your mouth and nose has been scientifically proven to reduce spread of respiratory infection. Please, always wash, iron and ensure the improvised cloth mask is not dirty.”
The Nation
