In line with plans of the Nigerian government for the gradual easing of the COVID-19 lockdown, it has approved the reopening of schools for final year students, and also lifted the ban on interstate movement.
The “safe reopening” of schools nationwide is included in the next phase of the gradual easing of lockdown ordered to curtail further spread of COVID-19. Meanwhile, interstate travels can, however, only be done outside curfew hours with effect from July 1, 2020.
These were disclosed by the Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, Boss Mustapha at the daily briefing of the task force recently in Abuja.
He declared that the reopening of schools was meant to allow students in graduating classes, final year students, resume preparation for examinations.
Mr. Mustapha also informed that the second phase of the gradual easing of the lockdown in the country has also been extended by four weeks.
“I am pleased to inform you that Mr. President has carefully considered the 5th Interim Report of the PTF and has accordingly approved that, with the exception of some modifications to be expatiated upon later, the Phase Two of the eased lockdown be extended by another four weeks with effect from Tuesday, June 30, 2020, through Midnight of Monday, 27 July 2020.
“Specifically, however, the following measures shall either remain in place or come into effect:
“Maintaining the current phase of the national response, for another four weeks in line with modifications to be expatiated by the National Coordinator; “Permission of movement across State borders only outside curfew hours with effect from 1st July 2020,” he said.
Nigeria imposed its first round of lockdown in late March. President Buhari on April 27 announced the gradual easing of the five-week lockdown in FCT, Lagos, and Ogun.
The lockdown was eased to a nationwide night curfew (8 p.m. to 6 a.m.) from May 4 to May 17. Many states, however, amended the curfew time, largely to commence from 10 p.m. and end at 5 a.m.
The first phase of the relaxed lockdown was extended by two weeks and elapsed midnight June 1. The second phase commenced June 2 and elapses by midnight today, June 29.
