BREAKING: Finally, FG lifts ban on interstate movement, approves ‘safe reopening’ of schools

The Federal Government on Monday lifted ban imposed on interstate movement effective from July 1, 2020.

Onyxnews Nigeria reports that Secretary to the Government of the Federation and chairman Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19, Boss Mustapha, made this known during the daily media briefing on Monday 29 June 2020.

National coordinator of  PTF, Dr. Sani Aliyu on his part said only fifty percent of the passengers of the buses are allowed during travels.

“Only 50% of the passengers are allowed with compulsory use of face mask,” he said.

The PTF, however, restated the continuation of the nationwide curfew between 10 pm and 4 am adding that “travels are not expected at this period.”

At the same time, the Federal Government has approved what is said to be “safe reopening” of schools nationwide in the next phase of the gradual easing of lockdown ordered to curtail continuous spread of COVID-19.

However, only graduating students will resume.

He said the reopening of schools was meant to allow students in graduating classes resume preparation for examinations.

He disclosed that the latest developments were contained in the task force’s fifth interim report which was submitted to the President Muhammadu Buhari, earlier in the day.

Mustapha’s words, “I am pleased to inform you that Mr President has carefully considered the 5th Interim Report of the PTF and has accordingly approved that, with the exception of some modifications to be expatiated upon later, the Phase II of the eased lockdown be extended by another four weeks with effect from Tuesday, June 30, 2020 through Midnight of Monday, 27 July, 2020.

“Specifically, however, the following measures shall either remain in place or come into effect:

“Maintaining the current phase of the national response, for another four weeks in line with modifications to be expatiated by the National Coordinator;

“Permission of movement across state borders only outside curfew hours with effect from 1st July, 2020;

“Enforcement of laws around non-pharmaceutical interventions by States, in particular, the use of face masks in public places;

“Safe reopening of schools to allow students in graduating classes resume in-person in preparation for examinations;

“Safe reopening of domestic aviation services as soon as practicable;

“Publication of revised guidelines around the three thematic areas of general movement, industry and labour; and community activities;

“Provision of technical support for states to mobilise additional resources for the response.”