Covid-19 in Nigeria: A Reality Or Fantasy?

Covid-19 in Nigeria: A Reality Or Fantasy?

The world is fighting a war with Corona Virus, the most difficult enemy that has ever confronted mankind and as such, thousands of souls have been lost within a short period of the battle. As days, weeks and months passes by, the numbers of death cases kept increasing and the deadly virus continues to spread rapidly among mankind like a wildfire scorching the savannah forest. However, the virus as I must say is a global pandemic and requires a global unity in putting an end to it.

The first case of COVID-19 virus in Nigeria was announced on 28th of February 2020, which started like a drop of the rain and gradually tending to make an ocean. Virtually every Nigerians took it for granted, believing it was unrealistic and fabricated by our political elites. Ever since then, over hundred Nigerians have been infected by this deadly virus but fortunately enough, it was also reported that certain numbers of infected patient have recovered from the virus and discharged from various isolation center within the country. However, it is very unfortunate that a majority of Nigerians still doubt the authenticity of COVID-19 Virus even while it is a bit visible to the blind and audible to deaf. 

How pathetic it is that when we walk within the ghetto we still hear ignorant Nigerians clamoring that corona virus is a scam and the government is siphoning public funds from it. I must meekly say, the question shouldn't be maybe Corona Virus is a scam or not? But a question of how do we survive the battle while putting an end to the virus? 

As a nation and "Giant of Africa" that we are known for, our focus should strongly rally on how we can collectively put an end to this virus, primed and united to deny it any opportunity of spreading further. So far, records still shows that Nigeria is consider among few countries in the world with less number of covid-19 virus cases compared to America, China, Italy, Spain, France, South Africa, Algeria etc, but however sadly rated high among African countries with most recorded cases.

Thus, if Nigeria really wants to put an end to this deadly virus, her citizens and the government of the day must not be left behind to be told the truth. 

To Nigeria Citizens; we must all devote ourselves to be over patriotic to abide by the local laws been implemented by the government and strictly adhere to medical precautions that has been proposed as a means of further measures to prevent infections and spread of the virus. Although, I must acknowledge the fact that there are certain laws that would be very difficult for her citizens to adhere as it is boom abusively to our cultural and traditional lifestyle as a means of survival. But then, we must comply with the law for our own good and safety.

"Hunger go kill us before the lie lie Corona virus" How government want make we survive ? Some of us, if we no go out, we no fit provide food for ourselves and family. A thread from lips of majority Nigerians. Subsequently the government should strongly shift it's focus mainly to the struggle of Human survival. A struggle between Hunger and the Virus.

To Nigeria Government; it is most important to realize that behind the COVID-19 health scare, there lies economic crash on the horizon that could disrupt and cause bitterness to the lives of her citizens. As government of the day, there should be a need to design stimulus package to help the poor and industries severely suffering from the economic effects of the Covid-19 lockdown, likewise provision of free hand sanitizers and distribution of free nose masks among her people should be made to prevent further spread of the virus.

In conclusion, I urge the federal government and the academic community to come together in resolving the circles of conflicts and strikes as it has devastating consequences to our education system. The interest of the students must be protected by both the Federal Government and ASSU and as such, both parties must ensure that our educational sector is protected. "The Students Are The Leaders Of Tomorrow". Therefore, the government should do everything possible to ensure a smooth running of our education without any forms of distractions.

Written by 

Balema Denja Abdulrazak
SYNW Coordinator in Federal University Lokoja (FUL)

08164572925
denjaabdulrazak@gmai­l.com