Due to the spike in COVID-19 cases in some parts of the world and emergence of new variants, the Nigeria government has included South Africa to the category of countries banned from entering into Nigeria.

It has also extended the ban on flights from Brazil, Turkey and India by four weeks.

The Chairman of the Presidential Steering Committee Boss Mustapha while speaking at its briefing said the decision is due to the prevalence of variants of concern of Covid-19  and the dangers associated with importation of such virulent strain from other countries.

According to Mr. Mustapha South Africa has recorded over 100, 000 cases in the last one week while 20,000 was recorded in the last 24 hours.

He also said the PSC has also shifted its focus on other Africa countries like Zambia, Rwanda, Namibia and Uganda.

What you should know 

Many countries across the world are experiencing a spike in cases of the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19). 

As a result, the Nigerian government, had on May 2, 2021 announced a temporary ban on non-Nigerian passengers who have been in Brazil, India or Turkey within 14 days of intended arrival into Nigeria.

Ban on flights from Brazil, Turkey and India by four weeks were imposed after variants of concern were identified in the countries. 

According to Mr. Mustapha, “The four major variants of concern are now classified as Alpha (UK), Beta (SA); Gamma (Brazil) and Delta (India). 

The Delta variant which has wrecked devastating havoc, is not yet found in Nigeria hence the need to tighten our borders and be more vigilant,” the SGF said.