IGN!S
Hi there! It is no longer news to anyone at this point, that the world is currently in a serious battle against the epidemic of the COVID-19, and this battle does not leave out our dear country, Nigeria. It is no doubt that the Federal and certain State governments in the country have been making efforts to control the situation.
However, one measure of controlling the situation which does not sit too well with Nigerians, particularly those living in Lagos, Abuja and Ogun states, is the issue of the lock-down which seems unending. People in areas affected by the lock-down have expressed difficulty in carrying on with regular activities particularly access to food and supplies.
The number of COVID-19 cases has however not subsided, but rather increased exponentially especially in Lagos, despite the lock-down order which is supposed to keep everyone indoors so that the experts can do what they need to manage the situation. The major reason for this is the fact that not everybody can afford to feed themselves during the lock-down and it seems relief efforts aren’t going round: thereby making people go out to try and get something to eat regardless of the obvious risk.
In order for the lock-down to be effective, here are some things that should be done:
1.) APPROPRIATION OF RELIEF SERVICES
When all the relief materials provided by NGOs, corporate bodies and other well-meaning individuals for the purpose of aiding those with no other access to basic needs, are well managed by government bodies and welfare parastatals, as fairly as possible, more people will be reached with these materials and therefore the volume of people going out to “hustle” will be greatly reduced.
2.) AVOIDANCE OF UNNECESSARY OUTINGS
The nature of the average Nigerian man is to go out, whether on adventure, to work, to unwind, Nigerians love to go out! However, it is important that we understand the season we’re in. The virus out there is more easily spread where and when there is concentration of multitudes of people. In order to play our part in flattening the curve, it is advisable to reduce to the barest minimum, all social gatherings which are not of absolute necessity. Hopefully when this is all over, we can all return to those activities we love. But for now, simple things like online meetings, walking around the house, reading, and time with loved ones are the things to engage in.
3.) OPTIMAL HYGIENE AT ALL TIMES
Even while at home, it is imperative to practice optimal hygiene. These are very simple rules including regular baths, tidying all laundry, and washing hands intermittently. The importance of washing of hands cannot be overemphasized, especially for the few times when we do go out. We don’t have X-ray vision and therefore do not know the composition of any surfaces we come in contact with. However, with proper hygiene and constant hand-washing, this does not have to be a worry as the virus cannot survive a clean healthy environment.
Watch The Docuseries by Truedis Media on Social Distancing
We hope that you take these tips seriously and help in fighting this COVID-19 by maintaining social distancing. Check out more tips and information on COVID-19 here
STAY HOME AND STAY SAFE!
