Faith
COVID-19: FG Lifts Ban on Religious Gathering
By Mathew Dadiya, Abuja
The Federal government Monday, in its second phase of the ease of lockdown, relaxed the ban on religious gathering and worship centres as well as workplace, after two months of restriction following the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The government said that the relaxation directive was approved by President Muhammadu Buhari after the Presidential Task Force on Covid-19 submitted its recommendations on Sunday to the President and the would be implementation over the next four weeks spanning June 2-29, 2020 subject to review.
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Chairman of the Presidential Task Force (PTF), Mr Boss Mustapha announced the directives during the national daily briefing of the Task Force in Abuja.
The government said that its response nationally had continued to rely on science, data, experiences drawn from other nations and consideration of the nation’s peculiar environment to address the pandemic while observing the guidelines issued by the World Health Organization (WHO).
The SGF said that the ease of the restriction on the religious Centre’s and workplace was in sustenance of key non-pharmaceutical interventions that applied nationwide which included: Ban of gatherings of more than 20 people outside of a workplace; relaxation of restriction on places of Worship based on guidelines issued by the PTF and Protocols agreed by State Governments.
Others included: “Managed access to markets and locations of economic activity to limit the risk of transmission; ban on inter-state travels except for movement of agricultural produce, petroleum products, manufactured goods and essential services; mandatory use of non-medical face masks in public places;
mandatory provision of handwashing facilities/sanitisers in all public places; extensive temperature checks in public places; maintaining 2 metres between people in public places; strengthening infection prevention and control at healthcare facilities.
As at midnight Sunday, 31st May 2020, Nigeria had recorded 10,162 confirmed cases of COVID-19, 3,007 discharges and 287 deaths, and recorded 553 new cases on Saturday, 30th May 2020 representing the highest single-day numbers, ever.
The government said that Nigeria has not reached the peak of confirmed cases; adding that “the battle against COVID-19 is a long term one; Nigeria should pursue a strategy that will aid the sustainable control of the spread of the disease.”
Risk communications and community engagement should remain top priority; and precision approach to containment and management should be adopted, the SGF said.
“Based on the overall assessment, including available data on the public health considerations and resultant economic impacts, the PTF is of the opinion that Nigeria is ready to allow SCIENCE and DATA determine her cautious advancement into the second phase of the eased lockdown for a period of four (4) weeks,” the SGF said.
According to the government, 20 LGAs out of the 774 accounted for over 60 percent of the confirmed cases of COVID -19 in the country.
The government cautioned that as the nation advanced into the Second Phase of the national response to COVID-19; application of science and data to guide the targeting of areas of on-going high transmission of COVID-19 in the country as well as mobilisation of all resources at State and Local Government levels to create public awareness on COVID 19 and improve compliance with non-pharmaceutical interventions within communities.
Also, the federal government also eased the total lockdown of Kano State but insisted that inter-state travel remained restricted.
The government said that it would continue to provide support through the NCDC to States through guidelines to shape decision-making in responding to high burden LGAs and Wards across the country.
The global figures recorded as at Sunday, 31st May 2020 had risen to 6,407,451 confirmed cases, 2,862,610 recoveries and 377,834 fatalities across 216 countries and territories of the world.
“The global epicenter of the pandemic has shifted from China to Europe, then to the United States of America and is now showing significant impact in South and Central America. This shift to South America with virtually similar climatic and demographic similarities with Africa, is a cause for concern when we consider the fact that earlier projections pointed to Africa as likely to be the worst hit continent, by the pandemic.
“In Africa, confirmed cases stood at 146,568 while 64,080 cases had recovered and 4,222 fatalities were recorded as at Sunday, 31st may, 2020.
“Reports have shown that there are lesser number of confirmed cases than expected across the African Continent. Countries have continued to record significant daily increases, capable of overwhelming our fragile healthcare systems if there is a consistent surge,” the government noted.
However, the Nigerian government said that this data calls for caution, planning, multi-sectoral investment in institutional and human capacity, scientific and methodical approach as well as citizens commitment to the control of the pandemic.
According to the government, there was increased capacity to detect, test and trace those infected with the virus;
The SGF said 29 testing laboratories have been activated, with Bauchi being the latest addition, while the test count nationwide has exceeded 60,000.
It said that it has shifted focus to community engagement and enhanced risk communication
….Position on Military Intervention
Laide Akinboade, Abuja
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) has urged the Economic Community Of West Africa States (ECOWAS) not to use military intervention to resolve the current crisis in Niger.
In a recent statement signed by the CAN President, Archbishop Daniel Okoh, the apex Christian association commended President Ahmed Tinubu, and other heads of ECOWAS for their unwavering commitment to discouraging coups d’état and the forceful takeover of power.
“We also applaud their commendable efforts in resolving the crisis currently faced by our neighbours in the Republic of Niger.
“CAN fully recognizes the gravity of the situation in Niger and the importance of upholding democratic principles, peace, and stability within the West African region. We believe that the peaceful resolution of conflicts is vital for the progress and well-being of our nations and our people.
Read Also: Niger Coup: Activate Standby Force, ECOWAS Orders Defence Chiefs
“We applaud President Ahmed Tinubu for adopting a diplomatic approach in addressing the crisis by sending a high-level delegation, led by the eminent statesman General Abdulsalam Abubakar, to engage with the Nigerien authorities. This diplomatic overture demonstrates President Tinubu’s commitment to peaceful dialogue and his belief in the power of constructive engagement to foster understanding and resolve conflicts.
“Furthermore, we commend the inclusion of the esteemed Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, in the delegation. This representation showcases the unity of purpose and the collaborative spirit of Nigerian leaders, transcending religious and ethnic boundaries to jointly pursue peace in our region.
“CAN also commends the notable efforts of other prominent leaders, who have engaged with the Nigerien authorities in their personal capacities, leveraging private contacts. Their wisdom, experience, and counsel will undoubtedly contribute to the resolution of the crisis in Niger and the restoration of peace and stability in the region
“As an organization deeply committed to promoting justice, peace, and harmony, CAN urges Tinubu, to remain on the path of dialogue and avoid any form of military intervention or measures that would create enmity between the good people of Nigeria and Niger. We firmly believe that the path to lasting peace lies in upholding democratic processes, respecting the sovereignty of nations, and engaging in peaceful dialogue to address grievances and resolve conflicts.
“We implore all stakeholders involved in this matter to embrace peaceful negotiations, exercise restraint, and tirelessly work towards a sustainable resolution of the crisis in Niger. It is crucial to remember that peace is a collective responsibility, and only through joint efforts and unwavering commitment can we build a future of progress, stability, and prosperity for our nations, the statement read.
Tony Obiechina, Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has been urged to inclusively involve all segments of the country in his administration and ensure the equitable distribution of resources to address the citizens’ plight.
Reverend Babatunde Idowu, the District Overseer of Foursquare Gospel Church in Wuse, Abuja, gave this advice during the Church’s 10th District Anniversary.
He emphasized that directing resources appropriately would also help alleviate economic challenges and address the country’s infrastructural decay.Reverend Idowu acknowledged that the current administration’s economic policy is commendable, but stressed the importance of appointing the right individuals to manage the proceeds from fuel subsidy removal.
He stated that only Nigerians who fear God and are committed to serving the nation should be engaged for such responsibilities.
The Cleric believes that when both leaders and the public act responsibly, divine intervention will lead to the country’s transformation.
Assistant Pastor of Foursquare Utako, Abuja, Mrs. Stella Eniola Huthman, appealed to women to fulfill their responsibilities, set examples, and foster peaceful households.
Pastor Stella Eniola attributed the current moral decline in society to the failure of some women in fulfilling their roles, urging them to contribute positively to building a better nation.
Deacon Samson Olorunda, Chairman of the anniversary committee, stated that the church would persistently pray for divine intervention to address the country’s challenges.
He assured that the church would remain dedicated to promoting peace and spreading the gospel of Jesus Christ.
The theme for the week-long program was “Much More Than This,” derived from the book of 2 Chronicles 25:9-10.
By Laide Akinboade, Abuja
The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) said that the increasing hardship faced by the majority of Nigerians due to recent hikes in fuel prices, school fees, and other essential expenses ignites worries.
In a statement issued by CAN President, Daniel Okoh, over the weekend, he urged the Federal Government to take immediate measures to alleviate the suffering in the country.
“While we acknowledge the complexities and difficult decisions taken by the government to manage the nation’s economy, there is an urgent need to prioritize measures that will alleviate, rather than exacerbate, the existing poverty level and hardships of Nigerians.
“The recent price hikes have placed an enormous burden on the already struggling masses, making it extremely difficult for them to afford the basic necessities of life,” the CAN President remarked.
He further advised the Federal Government to engage with critical stakeholders in meaningful dialogue to explore sustainable solutions to the current situation.
As part of the recommendations, Okoh stressed the importance of developing comprehensive economic policies that promote inclusive growth, job creation, and social well-being. He urged the government to focus on diversifying the economy, reducing dependency on volatile commodities, and promoting investments in sectors with the potential to create sustainable employment opportunities. These measures, according to him, would not only bolster economic resilience but also enhance the overall well-being of citizens.
“The fuel subsidy palliatives being considered by the government should go beyond cash transfers and should include the introduction of mass transport across states to reduce the cost of transportation. The multiplier effect of this will be profound,” Okoh emphasized.
Additionally, the CAN President called for measures to reduce the price of fuel, including the removal of unnecessary levies and taxes on imported petroleum products, stabilization of the foreign exchange market, and the restoration of local refineries to functional and effective use.
“While we understand that there is no gain without pain, the pain must not be unbearable,” he added.
Appealing to Nigerians to exercise patience with the government, Okoh urged everyone to work together to build an inclusive and resilient economy that offers opportunities for every Nigerian to thrive.
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