"Prepare for the worst" - Health Minister tells Nigerians -

The Minister of Health, Dr. Osagie Ehanire has urged health workers and other Nigerians to prepare for the worst as the nation continues its battle against the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

He appealed for vigilance, saying that the nation was not out of the woods yet.

Ehanire spoke at the Daily Briefing of the Presidential Task Force on COVID-19 on Tuesday in Abuja.

“Yesterday, the President authorised extending easing of restrictions in Lagos, Ogun and FCT by another two weeks. The lockdown in Kano was also extended by two weeks, to address remaining challenges to containing the increasing number of confirmed COVID-19 cases.

“It is of great importance that we – members of the health sector and citizens — endeavour to use this period to dedicate efforts to strive for the best, but also prepare for the worst.

“As we learn more about coronavirus every day, we must be ready to adjust our strategy, based on knowledge and evidence.

“To continue strengthening response in States, the Federal Ministry of Health and Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) are assessing isolation centres all over the country, recently in Yenagoa and Osogbo. We also continue providing diagnostic commodities and facilities in collaboration with partners,” Ehanire said.