The Chairman Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 and Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Barr Boss Mustapha says 731 members of Batch B Corps Members have tested positive for COVID-19.
He stated this at the National Briefing in Abuja, adding that there was a rising rate of infections among health workers.
“In continuation of the NYSC engagement, the PTF has conducted the testing of Batch B Corps Members using RDTs.
“Out of the 35,419 in Batch B, 731 tested positive compared to 108 recorded during the Batch A.
“It is on record that cases were recorded from corps members from every state of the federation.”
“This calls for the escalation of surveillance. In Africa, Nigeria has joined South Africa in reporting the highest daily infection cases.
“As at date, the statistics for Nigeria shows the following: Cumulative Cases: 91,351; Cumulative Tests: 958,911; Deaths: 1,318 and Week 53 recorded 57 deaths which is the highest for any single week since we started.”
Mustapha disclosed that oxygen cylinders have been provided for critical care centres.
“We are pleased to inform you that the private sector – CACOVID has commenced supporting our response with 100 oxygen cylinders per day till the end of March 2021, for distribution to critical care centres in Abuja.
“Furthermore, approval has been given to rehabilitate five oxygen plants across various tertiary health institutions in Abuja.
“The President has also approved that at least one oxygen plant should be established in each state of the federation immediately.”
On vaccines, he stated that “the PTF is progressing on the issue of accessing vaccines for Nigerians. Additional information will be provided to Nigerians on accelerated vaccines introduction and deployment plan.
“What is currently confronting us is a critical phase of infections globally. We are constantly reviewing our strategy to emerging situations especially in risk communication, vaccine hesitancy, fake news and disinformation.”
On sanctioning of defaulting passengers, the PTF said it has commenced the sanctions on passengers who defaulted on Day-7 Post Arrival Tests.
“Their passport numbers have been published and travel restrictions imposed for a period of six months effective 1st January, 2021.
“The PTF has generated over 20,000 inbound passengers that have also defaulted. The publication will continue weekly till it is exhausted.
“Nigerians should be aware that every defaulter is a threat to public health which is unacceptable to us and represents a draw back to the National Response. We have a duty to advise our relations, friends and associates to comply with laid down rules,” Mustapha said.
