‘Gathering restrictions lifted, face masks by choice’ — FG relaxes COVID rules

The federal government has announced a further review of COVID restrictions in the country.

The presidential steering committee (PSC) on COVID-19, announced the development in a statement issued on Monday and signed by Boss Mustapha, its chairman.

The PSC said President Muhammadu Buhari has approved the immediate relaxation of COVID safety measures, following the PSC’s recommendations based on sustained reduction in COVID transmission across the country.

In April, the federal government lifted the nationwide curfew imposed from midnight to 4am and the advisory limiting Nigerians to essential travel.

It had also said all recreational venues, are allowed to open at 50 percent capacity, and that the use of face masks for indoor activities is mandatory but at individual’s discretion during outdoor activities.

According to the newly reviewed guidelines, the use of face masks for indoor use is no longer compulsory.

All limitations on public gatherings have also been lifted.

“Gathering limitations in Public Places: All restrictions with regard to gathering in public places have been lifted. Owners of facilities are strongly encouraged to maintain good environmental/respiratory hygiene, and ventilation,” the statement reads.

“Use of Face Mask: The use of facemasks is at individual’s discretion for outdoor and indoor events. However, the elderly, immunocompromised and those with co-morbidities are advised to use facemasks, wash hands with clean water and soap, use hand sanitisers, and avoid large gatherings.

“COVID-19 Travel testing: All pre-departure and post-arrival PCR test requirements for all persons who are not fully vaccinated have been suspended. With the suspension of both the preboarding and post-arrival PCR tests, passengers will no longer be required to upload evidence of vaccination on the Nigeria International Travel Portal (NITP). All unvaccinated and partially vaccinated passengers are strongly encouraged to get fully vaccinated.

“Health Declaration Form. A simplified Health Declaration (non-covid-19 specific) shall be completed by all passengers arriving in Nigeria on the Nigeria International Travel Portal (NITP); while provision will be made on arrival for those who were unable to complete this form before departure.

“Finally, the Presidential Steering Committee on COVID-19 (PSC) passionately appeals to Nigerians to ensure that they take their COVID-19 vaccinations as well as booster doses.”

Meanwhile, the development comes amid political rallies featuring massive crowds supporting candidates contesting the 2023 elections.