The Rainbow
Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19, Mr Boss Mustapha, announced Thursday that the Federal Government had adjusted the cutback on the number of hours the curfew in place nationwide would apply.
The curfew which is one of the measures put in place to curtail the spread of the dreadful COVID-19 pandemic will now be in effect between 12 midnight and 4 am. The cutback is part of the gradual easing of lockdown measures imposed to curb the spread of COVID-19 in the country.
In June, the PTF adjusted the initial nationwide curfew of 8:00 pm – 6:00 am to 10:00 pm – 4:00 am in a bid to limit social interactions and, reduce the risk of transmission of the virus. The government had on the same day announced the reopening of all schools nationwide. Schools have been closed since March 29, 2020.
Mustapha at a briefing in Abuja explained that people on essential service and travellers returning from abroad are exempted from the curfew.
“We are modifying the curfew to commence from 12 midnight to 4am nationwide, effective from 12:00 tonight.
“This does not apply to people on essential services and international travellers that might be returning from abroad.”
He also stated that all limitations to land travels have been lifted and markets across the country can now open and operate all day.
Similarly, the PTF national coordinated also stated that cinemas and amusement parks can also operate, with the exception of bars and night clubs, which he said, will remain closed.
Meanwhile, Mr Mustapha urged States considering reopening their schools to conduct risks assessment before doing so, to enable the safety of all vulnerable groups.
