Nigerian Senators Give 50% of Salaries to Fight COVID-19

By Modupe Gbadeyanka

The Nigerian Senate led by Mr Ahmad Lawan has announced the decision of its 109 members to contribute 50 percent of their salaries to the efforts to respond to the spread and treatment of Coronavirus in the country.

This disclosure was made in a statement signed on Monday by the Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Media and Public Affairs, Mr Godiya Akwashiki.

Mr Akwashiki said, “After due consultations following a keen review of the national efforts to contain the Coronavirus pandemic in Nigeria, the Senate wishes to announce that from March, 2020, Senators will be donating 50 percent of their salaries to these efforts to stop the spread of the disease, otherwise known as COVID-19, in our country.”

He stated further that, “This monthly contribution from the upper legislative chamber will be sustained until Nigeria is declared safe from the ravages of this deadly disease.”

“The Senate commends the efforts of President Muhammadu Buhari and the administration towards the goal of securing our nation against this plague.

“The Senate is willing and ready to do whatever is required of the Legislature for the effectiveness of all the measures in place now or that may be required in the future to win the fight against this menace,” he added.

Continuing, he said, “The Senate commends all agencies of the federal and state levels for working in collaboration to protect public health across the country.

“It also acknowledges the patriotic response of public-spirited individuals and organisations who have contributed in one way or the other in support of this fight.”

“The Senate further appeals to the citizens to comply with the directives on social distancing and observance of basic rules of hygiene as explained by public health officials as the most effective way to protect ourselves, families and country against COVID-19.

“This is a global adversity that is testing the wit and resilience of mankind all over the world. By staying resolute and each of us responsibly playing their role, COVID-19 like all epidemics before it will soon be pushed into history,” he said.