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COVID-19 protocol: International air travellers must arrive five hours before departure

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….FAAN: Individuals will not be allowed to escort passengers into airports

June 27, 2020

Passengers travelling abroad through Nigeria’s airport terminals are required to arrive five hours before departure to undergo COVID-19 protocols, the Minister of Aviation, Senator Hadi Sirika, has said.

The minister said this on Saturday at the Murtala Mohammed International Airport, Ikeja, when announcing some of the measures introduced for the reopening of the country’s airports closed in March following outbreak of COVID-19 pandemic.

Sirika, who led other members of Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 to inspect facilities put in place at the airport ahead of its reopening, said domestic travellers on their part would need to arrive three hours before departure for processing.

According to him, this is in a bid to reduce sources of contamination of the virus.

Sirika said that physical distancing had been established at various points of the airport, adding that this is done by marking the floors at the airports.

He said that physical distancing would now be required to be maintained right from the point of getting down from the vehicle that conveyed one to the airport.

“We will provide polythene bags where passengers put all their things for protocol and we will ensure there is a minimal contact by the person screening you,’’ Sirika said.

The minister said that the number of seats at the departure lounge of the MMIA had been reduced to 50 from 500 in order to maintain social distancing.

He further said that passengers must comply strictly to the wearing of face masks before entering the airports while aviation authorities would ensure provision of alcohol based sanitiser at the airports.

The minister added that toilets at the airports were also COVID-19 compliant, stressing that everything is being done to minimise physical contact.

Sirika said that the pilots, engineers, traffic controllers and catering staff, among others, at the airports were now certified and licensed to carry out certain activities only when they have the valid clearance.

He said that the aircraft must be airworthy with full compliance to COVID-19 protocols, adding that the airports are set to be reopened.

He said that there would be palliatives for operators of airlines because they had lost a lot.

Dr Sani Aliyu, the PTF Coordinator, expressed satisfaction over full compliance with COVID-19 protocols at the airport.

He said it showed that the airport was ready for reopening with strict adherence to COVID-19 protocols.

Also speaking, the Minister of Culture and Tourism, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, said members of PTF were at the Murtala International Airport to inform Nigerians on the new protocols and processes guiding the reopening of airports.

Other members of the PTF who were in Lagos to observe adherence to COVID-19 protocols were Minister of State for Health, Senator Olorunibe Mamora and Minister of State for Education, Mr Emeka Uwajiuba.
Sirika also urged intending air passengers to strictly observe the ‘new normal’ laws being introduced in all the airports.

“Every activity we are undertaking here is to ensure that people observe physical distancing, wear face masks or shade, wash hands with soap and water, apply hand sanitiser and maintain environment.

“Government will ensure passengers participate in disinfecting the area for the sake of hygiene,” the minister said.

The minister said that passengers would be enlightened to adopt the “new normal” laws on time.

“It is advisable that we will announce when we are going to open the protocols; you need to be at the airport for local flight at least three hours before the flight.

“We have demonstrated here in a mock manner; we have demonstrated here a sick person, the health workers attending to him.

“God forbid, but if someone falls sick, we are very ready to attend to him. All of these is just to keep safe and this is the `new normal,” he said.

According to Sirika, under the new normal, passengers served tea or beverages will need to pick the tea that will be in a disposable material by themselves, to avoid contaminating others.

“The essence is to ensure smooth operation of our airports and this is to demonstrate that everything is alright and we are ready to start,” the minister added.

On seating arrangement, he said the new idea was to make cabin economically alright and avoid infection.

According to Sirika, the government will ensure the new laws are implemented in such a way that flights are comfortable according to World Health Oganisation (WHO) and International Civil Aviation Oganisation (ICAO) standards.

“WHO and ICAO developed the sitting protocols; we will ensure that those protocols are observed and implemented safely for aviation to remain an economically viable venture,” the minister said.

Aero B737 aircraft, with Registration Number NG110, which departed by 11.25 a.m., carried 51 passengers of the Presidential Task Force team from Abuja to Lagos.

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) started the simulation exercise at 8 a.m. during which there were 1.5m physical distance markings, two hand wash areas and bags disinfecting area.

Hand sanitisers were placed at strategic locations and Port Health workers were seen taking the temperature levels of intending passengers.

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USOSA Mobilises Nationwide Resistance Against Asset Sale, Holds Major Awareness Walk in Lagos, Abuja, Kano

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A powerful wave of resistance is building across Nigeria’s elite alumni network as the Unity Schools Old Students Association (USOSA) prepares for a coordinated nationwide awareness walk aimed at safeguarding the legacy and assets of Federal Unity Colleges.

Scheduled for Saturday, May 9, 2026, the high-impact rally will simultaneously hold in Lagos, Abuja, and Kano, drawing participation from thousands of old students under the unifying banner: “Pro Unitate – Better Together.”

Insiders within the association reveal that the rally is not just symbolic but a strategic response to growing concerns over alleged plans to commercialise or dispose of critical assets belonging to Unity Schools, a move many alumni describe as “short-sighted and dangerous.”

According to organisers, the objective is clear: to send a strong, unmistakable message to policymakers and stakeholders that the heritage of Unity Schools must be preserved, not monetised.

“This is about legacy, identity, and national cohesion,” a senior USOSA member told TheCityPulseNews under anonymity. “Unity Schools were built to foster national integration. Selling their lands or assets undermines that very foundation.”

The campaign has already gained traction online, with members urged to amplify visibility through branded display pictures and coordinated messaging ahead of the event. The mobilisation strategy reflects a well-structured advocacy push designed to capture both public attention and institutional response.

Observers note that this could mark a turning point in how alumni bodies across Nigeria engage with government policies affecting legacy institutions. USOSA’s move signals a shift from passive concern to active civic engagement , a model that could inspire similar interventions nationwide.

Security and logistics arrangements are reportedly being finalised across the three cities, with local coordinators ensuring peaceful and orderly participation.

As May 9 approaches, one thing is certain, USOSA is not merely organizing a walk, it is staging a statement and the message is unequivocal – Unity Schools are a national treasure, not a commercial asset.

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BREAKING: SGF George Akume, Other APC Chieftains Back ATM’s Ondo North Senate Bid

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Chief Abdul Tunji Mohammed (ATM), APC frontrunner for Ondo North Senatorial District, has secured the blessings of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and other party chieftains as his 2027 bid gains ground.

ATM met with the SGF and top APC leaders in Abuja, where he presented his agenda for Ondo North and sought their counsel. The meeting was described as cordial and strategic.

Senator Akume hailed ATM’s vision and readiness for national service. “The Senate needs men of capacity who understand governance. You have my support. Go and deliver for your people,” the SGF stated.

Responding, ATM said the backing of Senator Akume and other party chieftains was “a major boost.” He added: “Their encouragement strengthens our resolve to give Ondo North a strong, connected voice in the Senate.”

The consultation follows ATM’s purchase of the APC nomination form and earlier endorsements from former Deputy Governor Ali Olanusi, first-class monarchs, and youth groups in Ondo North.

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Sofela Salutes Workers, Calls Them Pillars of Ogun Central’s Progress

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Solanke Ayomideji Taiwo

The Senatorial Aspirant for Ogun Central under the All Progressives Congress (APC), Emmanuel Adebola Sofela, has extended warm felicitations to workers across the district in celebration of the 2026 International Workers’ Day.

In a goodwill message released to mark the global event, Sofela praised the resilience, diligence, and unwavering commitment of workers in Abeokuta South, Abeokuta North, Odeda, Obafemi-Owode, Ifo, and Ewekoro Local Government Areas, noting that their contributions remain central to the growth and development of Ogun Central and Nigeria at large.

Describing workers as the “engine room of progress,” Sofela acknowledged the sacrifices made daily by individuals in both the public and private sectors. He emphasized that from civil servants and entrepreneurs to artisans, traders, and professionals, every category of worker plays a vital role in sustaining the economy and strengthening the social fabric of the region.

“On this special occasion of International Workers’ Day, I celebrate the hardworking men and women across Ogun Central whose dedication and commitment continue to drive our collective progress,” the statement read. “Your efforts, whether seen or unseen, form the foundation upon which our communities thrive.”

Sofela highlighted the importance of recognizing and rewarding hard work, stressing that workers deserve not only commendation but also improved welfare, fair opportunities, and an enabling environment to maximize their potential. He called for renewed focus on policies that prioritize job creation, economic empowerment, and sustainable development.

The senatorial hopeful also paid special tribute to workers in essential services, including healthcare personnel, security operatives, teachers, and sanitation workers, who he said consistently demonstrate exceptional courage and responsibility, often under challenging conditions.

“You remain the backbone of our society, standing firm in service even in difficult times. Your dedication inspires hope and strengthens our resolve to build a better future,” he added.

Reaffirming his commitment to the people of Ogun Central, Sofela assured that his aspiration is driven by a desire to advocate for workers’ rights, promote inclusive growth, and support initiatives that will enhance productivity and improve living standards across the district.

As Workers’ Day is celebrated worldwide, his message resonates as both a tribute and a call to action—recognizing the invaluable role of workers while emphasizing the need for sustained efforts to uplift and empower them.

Across Ogun Central, the celebration served as a reminder that behind every achievement lies the dedication of hardworking individuals whose contributions continue to shape the present and secure the future.

Happy International Workers’ Day.

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