COVID-19: PTF issues new guidelines to curtail spread

December 21, 2020

The Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 has issued new guidelines to curtail the spread of the second wave of coronavirus in the country.

Speaking during a briefing in Abuja on Monday, the Chairman of the PTF, Boss Mustapha explained that the directives were advisories issued to state authorities for implementation within the next five weeks.

The PTF directed that all restaurants, bars, night clubs and event centres nationwide are to be closed, except those providing services to hotel residents, takeaways, home deliveries, and drive-ins.

Similarly, all informal and formal festivity events, including weddings, conferences, congresses, office parties, concerts, seminars, sporting activities, end of year events, have been restricted to not more than 50 people.

It also limited all gatherings linked to religious events to less than 50 per cent of the capacity of the facility of use which physical distancing and use of face masks should be strictly enforced.

It advised government agencies to adopt virtual meetings and ensure that all offices are well-ventilated.

It directed all government staff on GL.12 and below to stay at home for the next 5 weeks, adding that Permanent Secretaries and Chief Executives are to be held accountable for enforcing NPI rules in their domains with frequent spot checks.

The PTF also instructed all schools to vacate and remain closed till the 18th of January, 2021 to enable the measures introduced to take effect

It admonished all persons above the age of 60yrs to stay at home and avoid crowds, adding that all non-essential travels – both domestic and international during the holiday season should be suspended.