Robert Egbe
The 18-member Think Tank comprises private sector professionals and clerics from Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, the United States of America (USA) and Germany.
THE Anap Foundation COVID-19 Think Tank has identified seven items it believes are critical to helping Nigeria to contain the COVID-19 pandemic.
In a statement, it urged local and international donors seeking to help the country combat the virus to make reference to the list of items.
The items are: Test kits, Molecular laboratories + skilled personnel, Surgical face masks and cloth face coverings, Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) for medical personnel & Workforce redeployment, Respirators /Ventilators, Hydroxychloroquine & Azithromycin + other drugs and Safety Net.
The Foundation, which was established on 22 March, 2020, is chaired by Founder of Stanbic IBTC Bank Plc, Atedo Peterside.
The statement said: “Access to test kits is critical. The countries that have performed best in containing the pandemic, South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore and Vietnam tested extensively and were then able to implement efficient containment processes.
“Testing capacity must be ramped up dramatically. The PCR molecular swab test is the only currently WHO approved diagnostic test for COVID-19. It is highly reliable when positive. We need access to kits for purchase and by donation.
“We need both surgical face masks and cloth face coverings. Surgical masks should be reserved for frontline healthcare personnel. Our textile industry, from small street tailors to factories, should begin to make cloth face coverings for the citizenry.”
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It also recommended gowns – which can be made locally – gloves, masks, goggles, face screens, head and foot protection, and walkie-talkies for two-way communication.
The group further suggested that the government should consider deploying final year medical and nursing students, retirees, and unemployed health professionals of all grades.
“Accept assistance from all countries that have had success in controlling the spread of COVID-19, particularly in the area of training of local manpower,” the statement said.
According to the Think Thank, there must be a planned correlation between the supply of ventilators and the availability of trained manpower to use this equipment.
It noted that there were some anecdotal reports suggesting that Hydroxychloroquine with or without azithromycin was beneficial in the treatment of COVID-19.
“Clinical trials are underway to determine the role if any of these drugs in the treatment of the infection….Our pharmaceutical industry should monitor this situation and be prepared to increase production of these drugs should clinical evidence suggest they are of value.
The group also made a case for handouts to 40million unemployed and underemployed Nigerians, but that while “dietary and monetary donations are needed, accountability in spending is critical.”
the Think Tank’s Vice-Chairman is: Director of the Centre for Democratic Development Research and Training (CEDDERT), Abubakar Mohammed.
Other members include Managing Partner at Olaniwun Ajayi LP, Konyin Ajayi SAN; EY Americas Advisory Health Sector Chief Medical Officer, Yele Aluko (Dr); Regional Director of Ford Foundation in West Africa, Innocent Chukwuma; Health Services Planner Adwoa Edun ,Chairman of Zinox Technology Group, Leo Stan Ekeh and Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Sokoto, Matthew Hassan Kukah among others.
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