TheCable

The presidential steering committee (PSC) on COVID-19 says Nigeria cannot afford a third wave of coronavirus infections.

Boss Mustapha, chairman of the committee, said the national response will continue to focus on testing, detection, risk communication, community engagement, finding access to vaccines, vaccination of eligible Nigerians, enhancing surveillance especially at the points of entry, among other issues.

He enjoined Nigerians to keep adhering to the safety protocol and get vaccinated.

​”The philosophy is for us to keep out the virus as much as possible. India is still quite high in a number of cases and in the last week, the numbers in Africa experienced a spike, especially in South Africa,” he said.

​”The PSC, therefore, appeals to all Nigerians to continue to observe the non-pharmaceutical interventions diligently.

“Similarly, Nigerians must eschew sentiments by ensuring that friends, relations and associates arriving from countries of concern and, indeed, all countries obey the quarantine and post arrival protocols. It is our duty to make sure this occurs.

‘”Pursuant to the travel advisory issued, I wish to inform you that the PSC has initiated series of sanctions against those that have violated the 2021 Health Safety Regulations.

“This is considered a serious infraction and the PSC will proceed to deactivate the passports of Nigerians involved, for a period of not less than one year; revoke the visas of foreigners that have abused our hospitality, and prosecute the violators where necessary.

​”Nigeria will continue to monitor the unfolding events and will deal with them as applicable. Nigeria cannot afford a third wave and thus will do everything to protect our territory.”

He added that the PSC will focus on increasing testing and improving oxygen reserve capacity in case there is a third wave of infections.