Buhari Approves Extension Of Eased COVID-19 Lockdown By Four Weeks

President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the extension of the second phase of the eased COVID-19 lockdown for another four weeks.

The extension is the third for the second phase of lockdown, currently being observed across the country.

Boss Mustapha, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and Chairman of the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19, disclosed this during the daily briefing in Abuja on Thursday.

The task force had met with Buhari on Wednesday, and briefed him on the progress made so far in containing the spread of the virus and keeping Nigerians safe.

Mustapha, while addressing journalists, today noted that the PTF made some recommendations to the president, and the extension of the current ease of lockdown was one of the inferences approved.

The PTF chairman further disclosed that to sustain gains already made in the last few weeks, the task force recommended to the President, to retain the current phase of the response with minor changes, to address economic, socio-political, and health concerns.

According to him, the major changes being proposed are aimed at achieving the gradual re-opening of international air flights within established parameters, re-opening of rail transportation within established parameters, and the granting of permissions to exit classes to resume ahead of examinations.

Under the revised guidelines of the eased lockdown, which will be maintained in the next one month, the current nationwide curfew from 10.00pm to 6.00am still stands.

Also, meetings for government officials and parastatals will continue to hold virtually.

While the ban on entertainment centers will be maintained, restrictions on recreational parks have been lifted for non-contact physical activities.

Passengers for domestic flights can now arrive at least an hour and a half before flight, and three hours before flights for international travelers.

The SGF, however, re-emphasized the need for everyone to take responsibility, and stop the stigmatization of persons who have contracted, been treated, and have been certified negative for COVID-19.