Ecobank Nigeria has revealed that the first victim who died of coronavirus in Nigeria, visited their Abuja branch on the 12th of march, 2020.
According to the bank, at the time of visitation, the victim did not show any symptom, though they have now taken steps, as the branch is closed down, with staff also placed in isolation.
The bank has now urged visitors of the Wuse II, Abuja Branch, to self isolate for 14days, according to the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) guidelines.
See the statement released by the bank below;
The COVID-19 outbreak is a global pandemic. Nigeria, very sadly, this morning recorded its first death, which unfortunately is one of our valued Customers. Our most sincere condolences to the family. Our attention has been drawn to the fact that the deceased was at our Wuse II, Abuja Branch on 12 March 2020, twelve days ago.
The deceased did not show any symptom at time of visit. In line with best standards and our COVID-19 response plans, we have, therefore, immediately temporarily closed the branch and all staff at the location have been put in mandatory self-isolation for 14 days, in full compliance with the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) guidelines and to ensure their wellbeing and those of our customers. We have promptly informed the NCDC. We are further requesting, through this communication, that anyone who visited the branch between 12 March 2020 and now should take the necessary mandatory recommended step of self-isolation for 14 days and contact the NCDC.
Should any of these persons feel sick or exhibit any symptoms do immediately call NCDC on 0800 970000 10 (Toll-Free Call Centre) for assistance and guidance. Since 01 March 2020, Ecobank Nigeria had commenced preventive measures at all its locations.
On 19 March 2020 we had advised our customers that as part of efforts to curb the spread of COVID-19, to use our digital platforms – Ecobank Mobile App and USSO *326#, Ecobank Online, EcobankPay (contactless payment), Rapidtransfer App, Ecobank Omnilite and Ecobank OmniPlus for their transactions or call our Contact Centre for support.
The wellbeing of our staff, customers and community is of utmost importance to us and we remain fully committed to every effort to curb the spread of COVID-19 in Nigeria. We have evoked our business continuity plan and would be advising our customers of additional steps shortly. Let us all join to #StayWell and #StaySafe.