“The Presidency said it’s  also releasing a N5 billion special intervention fund to NCDC to equip, expand and provide personnel to its facilities and laboratories across the country. We also appeal that the fund be adequately utilised to respond to suspected cases of the virus.”

However, it commended the effort of the Central Bank of Nigeria, the private sector, led by Aliko Dangote Foundation and Access Bank, which have  set up a coalition aimed at raising N 120 bn as well as well-meaning individuals, who have contributed towards the fight against COVID – 19 in Nigeria.

“Our healthcare system is further threatened by the call by the United States government asking medical professionals seeking to work in America to apply for work visa at the nearest US embassies as part of measures to strengthen the health system to contain the coronavirus pandemic in America.’

“In the statement published on www.travel.state.gov on Friday, the US government also directed foreign medical professionals already in America to consult with their sponsors to extend their programmes.”

“Considering how Nigerian trained health workers leave the country in droves owing to poor welfare and working conditions, the country cannot afford to lose  any of its health personnel to foreign nations at this critical time when they are needed most.”

“Healthcare workers are desperately needed to respond to the outbreak, which prompted the recalling of retired doctors and nurses by the Federal Government.  “

” But these healthcare workers represent one of the most vulnerable populations in terms of contracting the highly virulent disease due to the nature of their jobs and therefore, must be adequately taken care of .”