COVID-19 : Low tests in states may hamper reopening of schools, NYSC camp, others — Governors

The Nigerian Governors Forum (NGF) says low COVID-19 tests in some states will hamper reopening of schools, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) camps, and conduct of elections across the country.

It noted that low testing rates would make it difficult to track the correct status of the pandemic in the country and to make important decisions like opening of schools, NYSC camps, and holding elections.

In a communique signed by Governor Kayode Fayemi of Ekiti and Chairman NGF, the Governor of Delta State, Dr. Ifeanyi Okowa, Chairman of the NGF Sub-Committee interfacing with the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19, restated  the importance of increased testing in all states as the economy opens.

The governors urged their colleagues to take ownership of the COVID-19 response, especially with the expected winding of the PTF by the end of September 2020.

The Forum through its Sub-Committee interfacing with the PTF on COVID-19, assured that it will address concerns raised by States on the reception of new inmates amidst measures taken to curtail the spread of COVID-19 across correctional facilities in the country.

The forum resolved to provide leadership to the COVID 19 response in the respective states by ramping up risk communication activities and community testing for COVID-19.

The state governments were asked to nominate focal persons that will interface with the Ministry of Petroleum Resources on the actualization of the National Gas Expansion Programme (NGEP).

PerSecondnews recalls that the Minister of State for Petroleum Resources, Chief Timipre Sylva had in July addressed the governors on the NGEP which is designed as a catalyst for Nigeria’s vast natural gas reserves.

The plan will spur revitalization across gas-based industries in fertilizer, methanol, textiles and feedstock for industries among others.