The presidency says every visitor to the Presidential Villa, Abuja will henceforth be required to take rapid COVID-19 tests before admittance.
According to Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, the development was necessitated by the global spike in the rate of COVID-19 infections, especially the Omicron variant.
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The rapid COVID-19 test is designed to tell in a few minutes whether someone is infectious or not. It is recommended as a high-performing test for individuals with symptoms, high-risk populations, and healthcare or casual workers.
Shehu told State House correspondents on Sunday that every visitor, with the exception of a few leaders, will be required to take the rapid COVID-19 test at the entrance to the villa.
“Yes, a new regime of COVID-19 regulation has been put in place for all visitors to the Villa, not for Governors alone,” Shehu said.
“Every visitor to the Villa, not just those seeing the president, is now required to do a rapid test at the gate.
“The kits are freely issued so no one is required to make payment. This is purely temporary in view of the recent spike in cases, and will be removed any moment the situation abates. It’s a growing practice in government offices in many countries.
“Although some exceptions have been made for a few leaders in government coming from outside the Villa, they too are encouraged to do those tests.
“This policy has rightfully been justified following the discovery of COVID-19 positivity in some of those tested since the last few days of the practice,” Shehu said.
Like a few other presidential aides, Shehu tested positive for COVID-19 last week and went into isolation.
He subsequently announced his recovery five days ago.
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