FG orders shutdown of schools over fear of Coronavirus

The Federal Ministry of Education has ordered the immediate closure of universities, secondary and primary schools across the country over the outbreak of the Coronavirus in the country.

The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Education, Mr. Sonny Echono, while speaking to Newsmen on Thursday, said the move was part of measures to contain the spread of the disease.

On Thursday, Nigeria confirmed four new cases of the novel COVID-19, bringing the number of people with the virus to 12.

In furtherance to curb the spread, the Niger State Government has also directed the closure of public and private schools as well as tertiary institutions across the state from Monday, March 23, 2020.

A statement issued on Thursday by the Secretary to the State Government, Ahmed Matane, stated that all public gatherings have also been suspended by the State Government.

Matane said, “The closure of the public, private schools, and tertiary institutions is for the period of 30 days, including the suspension of all public gathering.

“The decision to shut down the schools for 30 days and suspend public gatherings is part of government’s deliberate efforts to contain the global spread of Coronavirus pandemic.”

He called on the people of the State to always uphold the highest degree of personal hygiene, remain calm and adhere strictly to all safety measures earlier announced by the State Ministry of Health.