TheCable

The federal government says it has taken South Africa, Brazil and Turkey off the list of countries from which travellers are restricted from entering Nigeria.

Boss Mustapha, chairman of the presidential steering committee (PSC) on COVID-19, disclosed this on Wednesday at a media briefing in Abuja.

The federal government had, in June, added South Africa to the list of countries from which travellers are restricted from entering Nigeria — over the high infection rates recorded in the affected countries.

In September, India was removed from the list of countries flagged over high surge of COVID-19 infections.

Speaking at the briefing, Mustapha also said a revised protocol for international travel will be released within the next 24 hours.

“Over several months, four countries were placed on high-level restriction for travellers from such countries. The PSC has, after a review of the developments in these countries, decided to remove South Africa, Turkey, and Brazil from the restricted list,” he said.

“As you are aware, the UK has eased restrictions on fully vaccinated travellers from Nigeria to the UK with effect from 11th October. Nigeria welcomes this development and assures that the PSC shall continue to review Nigeria’s protocols based on global developments, science and national experience.

“A revised protocol will be issued in the next 24 hours.”

Mustapha also advised Nigerians to ensure continued adherence to the COVID protocol, considering that the country will soon enter the season of festivities.

“The PSC wishes to put Nigerians on notice that two major religious festivities (Salah and Christmas) are approaching and we shall be experiencing increased passenger traffic in and out of the country,” he said.

“Similarly, events of large gatherings are likely to hold.

“While the PSC prepares to escalate surveillance and other control activities, we urge the states and all Nigerians to also increase their vigilance and take measure to moderate activities.”