To manage cases of coronavirus pandemic in the Federal Capital Territory, the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) said it is preparing ‘multiple health isolation and treatment centres’ across the territory.
To this end, the Zuba General Hospital would be converted into an isolation and treatment centre to accommodate more patients, if the need arises.
The FCTA spokesperson, Anthony Ogunleye, made this known in a statement. According to him, the Minister of the FCT, Muhammad Bello, said the administration was working closely with the University Teaching Hospital, Gwagwalada, to expand the capacity of the current centre.
The minister said other measures to curtail the spread of the virus include the closure of shops in markets and neighbourhood centres to traders “except those who sell essential commodities and medicines”.
“Pharmacies and supermarkets selling essential products and bakeries are, however, to remain open but should abide by strictly laid down measures,” Bello said.
He said civil servants in the FCTA on grade level 12 and below have also been directed to remain at home starting from March 23 till further notice.
According to the minister, everyone on essential duties such as water supply, fire service, security and medical services, emergency response officers as well as environmental protection workers are exempted from the stay-at-home directive.
He said the FCTA will enforce the ban on all gatherings in public parks, gardens, bars, night clubs event and football viewing centres amongst others.
“Containing this virus requires and depends very heavily on personal choices of being disciplined, of being able to follow established protocols of behaviour as indicated by relevant health authorities. That is why it remains very critical for every citizen to follow laid down health and safety protocols so that jointly, we will be able to conquer this disease.”
