COVID-19: Nigeria announces lockdown of major cities

By Olarewaju Kola

MAIDUGURI, Nigeria (AA) - Nigerian President Mohammadu Buhari on Sunday announced lockdown of major cities worst hit by the coronavirus.

Addressing the nation Sunday evening, Buhari ordered a ban on social and economic activities, and gathering of people in the capital Abuja, commercial hub Lagos, Ogun state and other cities around them to stem the spread of the coronavirus.

"I am directing the cessation of all movements in Lagos and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, for an initial period of 14 days with effect from 11 p.m. [2000GMT] on Monday, 30th March 2020.

"This restriction will also apply to Ogun State due to its close proximity to Lagos and heavy traffic between the two states," the president said.

The total number of the coronavirus cases in Nigeria rose to 97, with one death, according to the National Disease Control Centre (NDCC).