BY Chinedu Asadu
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the West African Health Organisation (WAHO) have donated $8 million worth of medical supplies to support Nigeria’s fight against COVID-19.
The supplies, among which include two ventilators, were handed over to the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 in Abuja on Saturday.
Boss Mustapha, the task force chairman and secretary to the government of the federation (SGF), said it is only through such partnership that the world could fight COVID-19.
He urged ECOWAS member states to recommit themselves to responding to the pandemic which he said has been devastating not just for the African continent but for the world.
Mustapha, who was represented by Olusegun Adekunle, permanent secretary (general services) at the SGF office, said coronavirus has continued to spread because of people’s negative attitudes.
He listed three major things people do that cause the virus to continue to spread: “They are my colleague so I can speak without the mask. They are my close friends so I can speak without the mask. They are my relations so I can speak without the mask.
“Don’t do the above three mistakes … save yourself and others.”
He added that the items donated to Nigeria will go a long way in the country’s response to the pandemic, adding that the equipment are in scarce supply globally.
“The donation is gratifying because hundreds of medical personnel have been infected perhaps due to lack of kits. It will be used judiciously and it will be accounted for. We received this items with thanks,” he said.
Stanley Okolo, director-general of WAHO, said all the goods handed over were procured with the grant provided by the German government.
Osagie Ehanire, minister of health, spoke of how the donated items will help health workers: “Our health workers are toiling assiduously to treat COVID-19 patients, provide emergency care, while not losing sight of routine and essential health services.
“They all need our support and encouragement and I believe that the provision of these test kits and personal protective equipment will generate even more peace of mind to facilitate their work.”
Editor’s note: This picture was used for illustrative purposes
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