The federal government has announced the suspension of the Federal Executive Council FEC weekly meetings until further notice as part of its measures to contain the spread of the deadly coronavirus pandemic.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation SSG, Boss Mustapha, announced that the President, Muhammadu Buhari approved the suspension of the weekly FEC meeting, including the Council of State meeting earlier scheduled for Thursday March 26.
He also stated that all land borders would be closed for human traffic for 4 weeks effected immediately. Adding that the government’s current strategy against the COVID-19 is on testing, detection and containment through contact tracking in order to minimize hugely the possibility of community spread.
The statement reads in parts: “Ladies and gentlemen, after a further review, Mr. President on the recommendation of Presidential Task Force PTF has approved the following additional measures: Suspension of the weekly FEC meetings until further notice; postponement of the meeting of the Council of State scheduled for Thursday 26th March, 2020.
“All land borders that have been hitherto under partial closure shall now be closed for human traffic for four weeks effective, 23rd March, 2020; in order to protect Federal Civil and Public Servants, a circular to be issued by the Head of Civil Service of the Federation HCSF shall direct on actions to be taken immediately;
“All Abuja and Lagos residents are strongly advised to stay at home, avoid mass congregation of any kind as well as non-essential outings, until further advice is given.
“We commend Nigerians for stepping out to report and/or make enquires through the dedicated hotlines. Records show that on Sunday, 22nd March, 2020, over 4500 calls were received. This shows the high level of awareness amongst Nigerians.
“The strategy of government is to focus on testing, detection and containment through contact tracking in order to minimize hugely, the possibility of community spread. We urge anyone experiencing the symptoms of the virus or has been in contact with anyone who has been suspected or tested positive to please report at the nearest medical facility or the designated center.
“The Presidential Task Force PTF continues to monitor the global and domestic developments and has isolated Lagos and Abuja for particular attention in view of their population, mobility and number of cases already reported.”
