Prof. James Momoh, Chairman of the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC), has tested negative to the dreaded COVID-19, leading to jubilation among staff at the headquarters of the agency in Abuja.
Anxiety had heightened earlier in the week over his status following reports in a section of the media alleging his membership of a Federal Government delegation to Germany and Egypt.
The report indicated his participation in a meeting with the Executives of Siemens AG, alongside other senior government officials, some of whom are currently receiving medical attention.
But, a statement signed by Michael Faloseyi, Assistant General Manager (AGM), Government, External and Industry Relations, the agency categorically maintained that there was no truth in the report.
Breaking the news of his test result, Momoh said, “I have been tested negative to COVID-19. But, let me say that this is a trying moment that requires our collective efforts. I will advise our media houses to hold themselves to the highest standards of professionalism.
“Rumours and misinformation can frustrate the significant efforts of the government, private sector, and the international community in combating this virus.”
He prayed for the healing of those receiving treatment, including the Chief of Staff to the President, Mallam Abba Kyari.
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Meanwhile, in line with advice from the relevant health authorities, NERC has taken some preemptive measures to protect its staff from exposure to COVID-19.
Such efforts include scaling down on the number of staff in the office for the next two weeks. During that period, the commissioners and top management would report for work, while those in the essential services departments maintain a roster of duty.
The commission had also reduced visitors’ access to its headquarters building as the Registry Department would operate from the reception.
Staff in the Forum Offices across the country had been on instruction to receive complaints from electricity consumers using the information communication technology platforms.
These efforts would be in place for the next two weeks as part of the lockdown exercise of the Federal Government.
Momoh, who had been in isolation since his return from USA last week, offered to complete the isolation period.
He thanked his well-wishers and members of the public, who had expressed fear over his status as he concluded, “God has the final say in the affairs of men.”
