Soaga, NTA manager, tests positive for COVID-19

Ayinde Soaga, general manager of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) in Katsina, has tested positive for coronavirus.

In a statement, the family issued on Tuesday, they said Soaga is in high spirits and not bedridden.

The statement said Soaga volunteered himself for the test which was carried out by the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC).

No further details were given on how he contracted the virus.

“The Family of Alhaji Ayinde Soaga, GM, NTA Katsina appreciates the numerous phone calls and concern raised about the report as regards his testing positive to COVID 19,” it read.

“We wish to confirm that he is in high spirits, not bedridden, as he personally called in the NCDC officials to carry out the test on him.

“Aware that the COVID-19 is not a death sentence and believing in God for healing, we seek your prayers for a speedy and divine healing which Almighty Allah gives.”

The family also extended its appreciation to individuals and groups for their quick intervention and prayers.

Also, a statement signed by Tukur Dan-Ali, chairman of the Katsina state council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), expressed deep concern over the report and sympathised with the family and the NTA chapel of the NUJ.

He urged journalists to endeavour to take precautionary measures when carrying out their duties, noting that the union “strongly believed that Alh. Ayinde Suaga contracted the coronavirus as a result of his day-to-day services as a journalist and leader of NTA Katsina”.

Dan-Ali called on the Katsina government and other stakeholders to “as a matter of urgency” provide journalists with protective equipment.

“While wishing Alh. Ayinde Soaga quick and happy recovery, we also hope that staff of NTA Katsina, family, friends and all other constants of him will give necessary support to the health workers if and when the need arises,” it added.