Covid-19: Buhari extends PTF’s mandate to curb new surge, approves vaccine

President Muhammadu Buhari has extended the mandate of the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 till the end of March 2021,  while approving quick inoculation of vaccine.

The President disclosed this Tuesday in Abuja while receiving the End-of-Year Report of the task force on Covid-19.

The President said Nigeria cannot afford to lose the gains of the last nine months. “I have critically evaluated the situation and remain convinced that urgent measures have to be taken to halt the spread of the Corona virus and the attendant fatalities.”

On the President’s position on Covid-19 vaccine, he said there is need to speed up the administration. He said, “There is also the need to speedily and strategically access and administer the Covid-19 vaccine in a safe, effective and timely manner. This is an important obligation that we owe Nigerians as we go into year 2021, and it must be carried out through an efficient machinery.”

Buhari said now is the time for collective efforts to be intensified. “I therefore urge all sub-national entities, traditional rulers, religious and leaders of thought to collaborate with the PTF by taking up the responsibility for risk communication and community engagement at all levels.

“Let us all continue to stay safe and abide by all the protective guidelines issued by the relevant authorities, during this festive season and beyond,” the President urged.

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