President Muhammadu Buhari has mandated that all visitors coming to the Presidential Villa in Abuja will have to take a compulsory rapid COVID-19 test before entry.

This was disclosed known by the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, stating that the new development is temporary and due to the recent spike in COVID-19.

The statement partly read, “Yes, a new regime of Covid-19 regulation has been put in place for all visitors to the Villa, not for Governors alone. 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 positivity in some of those tested since the last few days of the practice.”

Recall that some presidential aides including the senior special assistant on media and publicity to the President, Garba Shehu, and some other officials had recently tested positive to Covid-19. (Daily Independent)