PTF converted to Presidential Steering Committee with ‘a modified mandate’ on Covid-19

THE Presidential Task Force on Covid-19 has been converted to a Presidential Steering Steering Committee.

Its chairman, Boss Mustapha, announced the development at a press briefing in Abuja yesterday.

According to Mustapha, who doubles as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, the president took the decision on March 31, 2021, which marked the expiration of the extension he initially granted the PTF and report presented.

He said, Mr President has considered the report and has approved the following:
“That the PTF will transition to a Presidential Steering Committee on COVID-19, effective from April 1, 2021, with a modified mandate to reflect the non-emergent status of COVID-19 as a potentially long-term pandemic;

“That the structure of the PSC shall reflect the new focus of the response with a targeted approach on vaccine oversight, risk communication, international travel quarantine processes and sub-national engagement; and

“That the tenure of the Presidential Steering Committee shall last till 31st December, 2021;

“The Presidential Steering Committee (PSC) would: maintain the present constitution, functions and strategies of the PTF; be supported by a slim technical and administrative structure.

“The current National Incident Manager (Dr Mukhtar Mohammed) shall formally take over from the National Coordinator and function as the Head (Technical Secretariat) and member of the PSC.”