The Federal Government yesterday lifted the nationwide midnight (12-4am) curfew earlier imposed to contain the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.
Also lifted were restrictions on parties, concerts, and other crowded activities, according to a statement issued by the Presidential Steering Committee (PSC) on COVID-19, titled; “Implementation Guidelines for Easing COVID-19 Restrictions.”
The PSC said the social restriction recommendations were revised in line with the three established thematic areas of movement, industry and labour, and community activities.
This decision followed the reduced risk of importation of new variants, availability of vaccines, and the increasing number of people vaccinated in Nigeria and globally.
The statement reads in part: “Use of face mask to be mandatory for indoor activities but at individual’s discretion during outdoor activities. Those aged 60 and above or with co-morbidities such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease are advised to uphold the use of universal precaution which includes the use of face mask, avoid crowd, and frequent use of hand sanitisers.
“No limitation on air travels – both domestic and international flights; both international and domestic travellers must abide by all existing protocols, including the use of face mask while onboard and taking personal precaution measures. All arriving international passengers must register with the Nigeria International Travel Portal (https://nitp.ncdc.gov.ng) and abide by the travel guidelines.
“No limitations on inter or intra-state travel; all vendors and service providers must abide by stated stipulations from the Federal Ministry of Transportation. All passengers and commuters must wear face masks once on board, as well as continue to observe personal precautionary measures.”
No limitation on air travels – both domestic and international flights; both international and domestic travellers must abide by all existing protocols, including the use of face mask while onboard and taking personal precaution measures.
Safety protocols
The government urged everyone to comply with existing safety protocols like the use of face masks, regular hand washing and social distancing to limit spread of the virus.
“Patients with underlying ailments are advised to uphold the use of universal precaution, which includes the use of face masks, avoid crowds, and frequent use of hand sanitisers,” it stated.
It said further that the safety protocols provide a baseline for state governments to build and strengthen their responses in line with their local circumstances.
“Continue to consider them as the minimum guidelines required to ensure an acceptable level of epidemic control nationwide,” it urged.
In the area of industry and labour, the government recommended virtual meetings by offices for the private sector and advised against large meetings. It asked operators to decongest offices and ensure they were well-ventilated.
It advised that normal work by all staff should resume in all offices while encouraging measures to reduce congestion such as working from home or on-and-off days.
The PSC also suggested mandatory use of face masks in closed offices and recommended safety protocol for all persons and discretionary use of appropriate measures.
