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COVID-19: Keyamo urges DStv, Startimes to extend subscription, MTN, Glo, others to give data, airtime
The Minister of State, Labour and Employment, Festus Keyamo, has urged leading pay TV companies in Nigeria, DStv and StarTimes to extend the subscription for Nigerians who are undergoing 14-day lockdown.
He also urged telecommunication companies to give free data and airtime to subscribers who will be locked in following President Muhammadu Buhari’s orders as the country grapples to contain coronavirus.
He said the gesture will be seen as their contribution to ease the pains of the Nigerian workers.
“As one of the Ministers entrusted with the welfare of Nigerian workers, I politely urge DStv and StarTimes to extend all existing subscriptions by at least one month, free-of-charge, as their own contribution to ease the pains of Nigerian workers at this time of lockdown,” he said.
“I would also urge MTN, 9Mobile, Airtel and Glo to consider giving Nigerians some token airtime and data to ease their pains & to ensure that communication with individuals and authorities is ensured in cases of emergencies, especially when toll-free numbers are busy,” he added.
On Sunday, President Muhammadu Buhari announced an initial 14-day lockdown in Lagos, Ogun and Federal Capital Territory.
He said, “Based on the advice of the Federal Ministry of Health and the NCDC, I am directing the cessation of all movements in Lagos and the FCT for an initial period of 14 days with effect from 11pm on Monday, 30th March 2020.
“This restriction will also apply to Ogun State due to its close proximity to Lagos and the high traffic between the two states.
“All citizens in these areas are to stay in their homes. Travel to or from other states should be postponed. All businesses and offices within these locations should be fully closed during this period.
