President Muhammadu Buhari said he has kept a close eye on international developments on the spread of COVID-19 and will introduce new measures, if they become necessary, to protect Nigerians.
It was the second statement issued today by his Presidency on the coronavirus pandemic as Nigerians in the social media asked Buhari to speak directly with them.
President Buhari said he has made available N15 billion in financial support to Lagos and the entire country to combat and contain the spread of the COVID-19 virus.
N5 billion out of the money will go directly to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control to equip and expand their facilities and laboratories.
To demonstrate the President’s concern, he approved the release of the funds within 48 hours, his aide Garba Shehu said.
Garba Shehu’s addressed the concerns of Nigerians, as it listed all the president’s efforts to combat the virus and give assurance to Nigerians that President Buhari is on alert.
The statement opened with a direct advisory from President Buhari:
“I advise all Nigerians to follow to the letter the health guidelines issued by the Federal Ministry of Health and our State Governments.
“Wash your hands thoroughly many times throughout the day. Observe ‘social distancing’ of a minimum of two metres. Do not make unnecessary journeys outside of your homes. Do not attend public meetings or public gatherings – including religious events – which is where, through social contact, the virus can easily be transmitted.
