By Abdulrahman Abdullahi
Nigerians have been advised to continue to adhere to all COVID-19 guidelines to avert fresh lockdown in the country.
Presidential Spokesman, Garba Shehu said in a statement released on Sunday, that the only way to forestall another lockdown in the country is compliance with the mandatory wearing of masks.
Shehu said the Muhmmadu Buhari administration introduced the regulation with the best of intentions and not with any motive to punish citizens.
He noted that the President is worried by reports of non-compliance with the wearing of masks and observation of social distancing in the public which becomes mandatory.
The Presidential aide, however, appealed to Nigerians to cooperate with the government to ensure the success of the regulation.
He also asked Nigerian to protect themselves and ensure to stay safe despite the availability of the COVID-19 vaccine in some parts of the world.
The statement read, “The Buhari administration is most reluctant to lockdown the country and continues to emphasise the non-pharmaceutical measures and the only way to avert lockdowns is to observe these measures as put in place by the Presidential Task Force.
“Nigerians have come a long way from the dreaded lockdown and the administration is unhappy about any prospects of bringing it back as many citizens will not have food on the table without venturing out on a day-to-day business.
“Nigerians are required to wear masks, wash hands regularly with soap and clean water, and keep safe distance with anybody not in your household, hoping that this will help check spread of COVID-19.
“Though vaccine availability is within reach, the propensity of the public for noncompliance weakens the fight against the virus.”
He added: “No one has immunity against this pandemic. Ignoring health warnings and refusing to comply with safety measures does more harm than good.
“The COVID-19 pandemic is a major threat to public health and wearing of masks, social distancing in public places and the basic hygiene are necessary measures that have to be taken to safeguard the well-being of our citizens.”
