24th August, 2020
The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Professor Akin Abayomi has tested positive to the CoronaVirus.
“He is doing well no symptoms. He will begin 14 days self-isolation and home care immediately. He will also continue to discharge his duty as Deputy Incident Commander”, an aide of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu said today.
Abayomi himself, later confirmed his status on Twitter:
“With utmost sense of responsibility, I am obliged to make it known to the general public that I have tested positive to #COVID19.
“Consequently, I have proceeded on a 14 days self- isolation and treatment at home”.
His tweet also hinted that the coronavirus may have affected other members of his family as he wrote that he and his family members “are fine and are responding positively to treatment”.
“Nevertheless, I remain committed to continue to discharge my duties as the Commissioner for Health and Deputy Incident Commander for #COVID19 responses in Lagos State.
“I am extremely enthusiastic and hopeful of overcoming this phase of our collective fight against COVID-19.
I have the full support of the Incident Commander and Governor of Lagos State @jidesanwoolu, the entire Cabinet of the Government of Lagos State as well as my team @LSMOH to put this behind as soon as possible”.
While he said he is obeying doctors’ orders, he also urged Nigerians to continue to #Maskup and maintain #PhysicalDistancing as well as other established protocols for #COVID19 prevention as appropriate”.
His disclosure about his status triggered an outpouring of support by Nigerians.
Chikwe Ihekweazu, DG of the National Centre of Disease and Control, wrote: I wish my dear brother & colleague @ProfAkinAbayomi a speedy recovery.Very grateful for your strong leadership of the #COVID19 response in Lagos State. We will #keeppushing & urge Nigerians to adhere to all public health and safety measures, so we can control this outbreak”.
Many other messages dropped by Nigerians thanked Abayomi for all his efforts in combating COVID-19 and wished him quickest recovery.