By Danmaryam Zayamu
The Secretary to Government of the Federation (SGF), Boss Mustapha, has appealed to state governments in the country to synergise with the federal government by intensifying efforts in the preparation of Covid-19 centres in case of increase in the number of confirmed cases.
This is even as the Minister of Health, Osagie Ehanire, has warned that there will be increase in the number of confirmed Covid-19 cases in the days ahead.
The duo spoke at a media briefing organized by the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on Covid-19, in Abuja, Thursday.
The SGF further revealed that the PTF has set up a team of experts with the mandate to certify more Covid-19 centres nationwide, reiterating that they are currently working in the FCT.
“As we continue to assess the readiness for containment and management, we recognize strongly, the importance of synergy with the states.
“It is important that states, whether in the front line where cases have been reported or where cases have not been reported to intensify the preparation of facilities that will help in the event of a surge.
“Training of personnel in the management of these facilities is also a critical factor to the success of our strategy.
“The PTF shall intensify consultations with the Governors and other state agencies to achieve the much needed collaboration,” Boss Mustapha said.
Speaking, the Minister of Health, Ehanire said that the number of testing centres are on the rise in the country.
“All of this means that more people and samples can be collected and tested more quickly, giving a shorter turnaround time, but it also means that more cases will be discovered initially than before.
“With 71% of the over presumed 6,000 or more contacts now traced, the number of confirmed cases will be rising dramatically. Contact tracing will still be intensified to reduce the number of outstanding cases,” he noted.
