The governor of Kaduna State, Mallam Nasiru El-Rufai, has extended the lockdown order the state by another two weeks.
The extension is a continuation of the bid to contain the spread of coronavirus in the state.
The extension of the lockdown was announced on Tuesday by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, in a broadcast.
She said the government was aware of the sacrifices made by the citizens, but there was need to do more to ensure success in the battle against COVID-19.
According to her, an increase in the cases in the state might lead to stricter orders.
Her words: “The Kaduna State Government is conscious of the sacrifices that citizens have made and the many challenges that remain in keeping them safe from COVID-19.
“This is why the state government has adjusted and extended the Quarantine Orders by two weeks to empower citizens to more steadfastly carry forward the fight against COVID-19.
“Preservation of the relaxations in this extension requires that citizens demonstrate greater compliance with laid down health protocols, particularly the wearing of face masks outside the house, observance of physical distancing, regular hand washing with soap and water and the avoidance of large gatherings.
“Violation of these protocols will compel the government to reimpose restrictions.
“A spike in Covid-19 infections will also necessitate a tightening of restrictions.”
She added: “From Monday, 1st June 2020, the revised regulations will come into effect. They give citizens a three-day window every week to shop for food and other essentials.
“Until otherwise stated, the lockdown-free days are Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday.
“Temporary neighbourhood markets will continue to operate from 10am to 4pm on these three days, but citizens can move from 6am to 6pm on these lockdown-free days.
“Informal markets are not allowed and those flouting regulations by turning streets into markets are advised to stop.
“The adjusted orders also expand the ability of citizens to resume the pursuit of livelihoods in permitted sectors subject to compliance with health and safety protocols, including physical distancing.
“Private sector firms that meet these requirements will also operate on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.
“This window also allows vulcanisers, welders, mechanics and providers of similar services to operate on the same days.”
The deputy governor said the restriction over interstate and intercity travel remained.
According to her, government officials and mobile courts would enforce the ban to prevent people from spreading the virus through non-essential movement.
She added that the night time curfew that had been enforced across the state remained from 6pm to 6am.
Schools, places of worship and markets would remain closed under the adjusted orders, she said.
“The relevant government officials and agencies will be engaging with religious leaders, transport unions, traditional institutions, market unions, school proprietors and other stakeholders as may be identified from time to time, to discuss the conditions and circumstances for a safe reopening of these sectors,” the deputy governor said.
