Nigerian govt orders total closure of land borders over COVID-19

The Federal Government on Monday ordered the total closure of all land borders that were hitherto partially closed.

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Mr. Boss Mustapha, who announced this at a press briefing in Abuja, said the borders would be closed for four weeks, starting from Monday.

Mustapha, who is also the Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, said the panel had continued to monitor global and domestic developments and had isolated Lagos and Abuja for particular attention because of their population, mobility and number of cases already reported.

He said: “As you are all aware, a number of advisories have been issued and measures taken.

“Part of the measures being taken presently include the following: escalating the nation’s capacity for testing and detection through the acquisition of more testing kits and establishment of additional test centres;

“Acquisition of personnel protection equipment (PPE) for different categories of frontline personnel;

(iii) enhancing contact tracking;

(iv) deepening of awareness creation.

“Mobilization of experts and trained personnel whether in service or retired;

vi.Introduction of social distancing policies and banning mass gathering of over 50 persons

“Closure of schools and tertiary institutions;

“The total ban on international travels shall commence at 12.00 midnight tonight at all our airports and

“Leaders of different faiths have been encouraged to restrict services and activities that involve a mass gathering of more than 50 of their adherents. State governments are also enforcing this policy at different levels.

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“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.”

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