President Muhammadu Buhari has approved N71 million to scale up screening and surveillance at Port health services to prevent importation of the Coronavirus into the country.
The minister of health, Osagie Ehanire disclosed this at the end of the Coronavirus Interministerial/Multisectoral Preparedness and Response Meeting in Abuja on Friday.
The minister said Buhari upon request, approved the sum as an additional fund on Thursday, which according to him demonstrates seriousness on the part of government.
“The president has approved additional funds for the port health services, so resources have been provided for surveillance and screening activities”, he said.
Ehinare added that a Committee has been set up to develop action plans and relevant authorities will continue to monitor Airports, sea port and land port to effectively respond to the disease. He assured that all stakeholders will strengthen collaboration.
Meanwhile, the minister of information and culture Lai Mohammed, noted that the global community has confidence in Nigeria to respond to the disease because of its success with Ebola.
Mohammed however opined that public enlightenment is key so that Nigerian citizens are adequately aware of the disease and how to prevent it.
The minister noted that there are currently about 16 Nigerians in Wuhan, China. He said government is working with the Nigerian embassy and the Nigerians will be evacuated if they indicate interest to.
He however cautioned Nigerians to travel to China only if it is extremely important.
Godsgift Onyedinefu, Abuja
