As countries continue to seek possible ways to curb the spread of the coronavirus pandemic, President Muhammadu Buhari has said as individuals, we remain the greatest weapon to fight this pandemic.

Buhari in a nationwide broadcast on Sunday added that the best and most efficient way to avoid getting infected is through regular hygienic and sanitary practices as well as social distancing.

He reiterated that by washing our hands regularly with clean water and soap, disinfecting frequently used surfaces and areas, coughing into a tissue or elbow and strictly adhering to infection prevention control measures in health facilities, we can contain this virus.

“Since the outbreak was reported in China, our Government has been monitoring the situation closely and studying the various responses adopted by other countries.”

He lauded the efforts of the Director General of the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and its Director General,  Dr  Chikwe Ihekweazu saying, “was one of ten global health leaders invited by the World Health Organisation to visit China and understudy their response approach. I am personally very proud of Dr Ihekweazu for doing this on behalf of all Nigerians”.

“Since his return, the NCDC has been implementing numerous strategies and programs in Nigeria to ensure that the adverse impact of this virus on our country is minimized. We ask all Nigerians to support the work the Federal Ministry of Health and NCDC are doing, led by the Presidential Task Force.

Although we have adopted strategies used globally, our implementation programs have been tailored to reflect our local realities.

In Nigeria, we are taking a two step approach.

First, to protect the lives of our fellow Nigerians and residents living here and second, to preserve the livelihoods of workers and business owners to ensure their families get through this very difficult time in dignity and with hope and peace of mind.

To date, we have introduced healthcare measures, border security, fiscal and monetary policies in our response. We shall continue to do so as the situation unfolds.

Accordingly, as a Government, we will continue to rely on guidance of our medical professionals and experts at the Ministry of Health, NCDC and other relevant agencies through this difficult time.