FG Relaxes Restriction On Places Of Worship

…Says ban on inter-state travels remains emplace

BY SEGUN ADEBAYO, ABUJA – The Federal Government on Monday announced the relaxation of restriction on places of Worship based on guidelines issued by the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 and agreed by State Governments under the non-pharmaceutical interventions that is expected to apply nationwide.

However, there is still ban of gatherings of more than 20 people outside of a workplace as well as managed access to markets and locations of economic activity to limit the risk of transmission.

The Federal Government which announced this through the PTF Chairman, Mr Boss Mustapha said that ban on inter-state travels remains except for movement of agricultural produce, petroleum products, manufactured goods and essential services.

Mustapha, who is also the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, also said that mandatory use of non-medical face masks in public places remain enforced in addition to mandatory provision of hand washing facilities/sanitisers in all public places as well as extensive temperature checks in public places.

He also said that maintaining 2 metres between people in public places and strengthening infection prevention and control at healthcare facilities as well as isolation of vulnerable populations (elderly and those with underlying health conditions) remain emplaced.

The PTF Chairman continued; “Massive information and education campaigns, Deepening of collaborative efforts with the community leaders, civil society, faith-based organisations, traditional institutions, Continuous mobilisation of State governments to take up greater role in the implementation of the guidelines and advisories provided by the PTF.

“Continued provision of support by the NCDC to States through guidelines to shape decision-making in responding to high burden LGAs and Wards; and

Easing the total lockdown of Kano State and introduction of Phase One of the Eased Lockdown.

“This is still a fight for life and our advancement to phase two does not mean that COVID-19 has ended. It is still potent and highly wasteful of human lives. I implore all Nigerians and corporate citizens to take responsibility and play the expected role,” he advised.