Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, Minister of Interior, says the ability of Nigerians to overcome the first and second wave of the coronavirus pandemic (COVID-19) shows the resilience of citizens.
Nigeria had recorded its index case of the virus in February 2020, but so far, the country is yet to hit 200,000 confirmed cases — although there are concerns of a third wave of infections following the discovery of the Delta variant in the country.
Speaking on Monday, at the third annual lecture of the Faculty of Arts of the Ekiti State University, Ado Ekiti, titled, ‘COVID-19: The Economy and Security’, Aregbesola said the enforcement of non-pharmaceutical policies proved to be effective in significantly halting the spread of the virus.
“COVID-19 hit us, but the government was able to mitigate the consequences. It also brought out the capacity of the Nigerian people for resilience in the face of adversity, and the milk of human kindness in the way a lot of our compatriots demonstrated generosity and acts of kindness to the underprivileged in our midst,” he said.
He recalled that the Federal Government empanelled the presidential task force, which immediately swung into action, coordinating with the NCDC and the ministry of health, all of government’s response and holding daily national televised briefing.
Aregbesola expressed sadness over the number of fatalities recorded, but commended health workers and other frontline personnel who worked to properly manage the pandemic.
He also hailed scientists for developing a vaccine in record time, and advised Nigerians to get vaccinated at the various designated centres across the country.
On the economy, the minister commended the private sector-led Coalition Against Covid-19 (CACOVID) for the “tremendous work” done to support the government and Nigerians.
He also highlighted other efforts of government during the pandemic, such as the transfer of funds to poor and vulnerable households registered in the National Social Register (NSR).
“The NSR was increased from 2.6 million households (about 11 million people) to 3.6 million households during the COVID-19 crisis. In same April, the federal ministry of humanitarian affairs, disaster management and social development began the provision of food rations to vulnerable households in the four states put under lockdown,” he added.
On his part, Edward Olanipekun, vice-chancellor of the Ekiti State University, commended Aregbesola for honouring the school’s invitation.
He advised students, members of staff and all Nigerian to comply with the COVID-19 protocol, while urging citizens to endeavour to get vaccinated.