By Kola Alhassan
The Federal Government has lifted the nationwide midnight curfew earlier imposed to contain the spread of COVID-19.
It also lifted the ban on large gatherings.
This was stated in a statement by the Presidential Steering Committee (PSC) on COVID-19.It was entitled: “Implementation Guidelines for Easing COVID-19 Restrictions.
”The PSC noted that the decision was necessitated by the reduction in risk of importation of new variants, vaccine availability and the rise in number of people vaccinated in the country and globally.
The Federal Government on May 10, 2021 imposed a nationwide curfew of 12 a.m. to 4 a.m. to curb the spread of the virus.
It also reduced gatherings of religious groups and social function to 50 per cent attendance, while official engagements and meetings were held virtually.
The government noted that the safety protocols would enable state governments to strengthen their responses based on circumstances in their region.
It told the state governments: “continue to consider them as the minimum guidelines required to ensure an acceptable level of epidemic control nationwide.”
In the new guidelines, there are no limitations to travelling by air, either domestic or international.
The government encouraged international and domestic travellers to adhere to all existing protocols, which include the use of face masks while onboard and other personal precautionary measures.
It also urged international passengers to register on the Nigeria International Travel Portal.
It said: “No limitations on inter or intra-state travel; all vendors and service providers must abide by stated stipulations from the Federal Ministry of Transportation; all passengers and commuters must wear face masks once on board, as well as continue to observe personal precautionary measures.”
