NUJ tasks NCDC on more COVID -19 testing laboratories

The Correspondents’ chapel, Nigeria Unionof Journalists (NUJ) Katsina State council, has called on the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) to set up COVID-19 testing laboratory in Katsina and other neighbouring states.

The union said this would enhance prompt testing of suspected cases with a view to preventing spread of the global pandemic.

Chairman, Correspondents’ Chapel, Alhaji AbdulHamid Sabo, made the call  at a press conference on Thursday in Katsina.

He said that the call has become imperative in view of growing spread of the virus in the country.

Sabo also called for the establishment of more isolation centres in the state for treatment of  infected persons.

He further appealed to the Federal Government to hasten release of grants to the states to help in the fight against the disease.

“Katsina State has a population of over 7 million people and shares borders with Niger Republic.

“There is the need for more efforts and resources to be committed in  preventing the spread of COVID-19 in the state,” Sabo said.

He added that the closure of the state’s borders with neighboring states and Niger Republic, closure of schools as well as the  prohibition of social and religious gatherings, were in the best interests of the people.

Sabo explained that these measures would assist to safeguard the people against the pandemic coronavirus.

He also lauded the efforts of the state Emergency Response Committee on COVID-19.

The Nigeria News Agency reports that the committee led by the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Mannir Yakubu, has so far, realised  over N150 million from philanthropists.

Edited By: Kamal Tayo Oropo and Isaac Ukpoju
(NAN)