FIDA Nigeria’s Statement on the Corona Virus Pandemic (COVID – 19)

FIDA Nigeria extends her warm heartfelt felicitations to everyone at this most difficult time of the Corona Virus Pandemic, where great countries are being brought to a standstill and the continuous reports of sickness and deaths are overwhelming.

The fight to survive is real for everyone (countries and individuals alike) and the reliance on government and the health sector to urgently do the needful and overcome this pandemic is indeed a great burden that must be lifted without delay

The government must rise up to its responsibility to her citizens particularly to provide health care, basic amenities and security, just as citizens on their own part must cooperate with government so that in the shortest of times and with minimal casualties we can overcome as a nation

At this most difficult time,  FIDA Nigeria empathizes with everyone, being that in one way or another, we are all affected whether it is through the loss of a loved one, or the many challenges of isolation, quarantine, the loss of jobs and income, the sense of frustration and fear, or the feeling of hopelessness and despondency, the lack of proper shelter and amenities, the inadequacy of the health care facilities, the children and youth out of school,  the list goes on and on…it is well with us all as no one is truly alone.

We encourage everyone to have the right attitude, there is indeed a time for everything, therefore please focus on the positives, which include the opportunities presented at this time, to help, to reflect, to read, to reconnect, to encourage, counsel, to do the pending things on your To-Do list, etc. Think outside the box, what can you do help your family, neighbor, community and State, (even if it is just to stay at home and observe social distancing).

This positive attitude is preferred, rather than focusing on the disruption of your program, what you have lost or what you cannot have at this time; then taking advantage of the vulnerable, inflation and the creation of artificial scarcity of necessary items, etc. All this cannot help you or society. Rather, remember to count your blessings and be thankful regardless of all the issues around you for it could always be worse.

FIDA, therefore, appeals to everyone to obey all the rules and guidelines issued by the relevant government authorities. Be vigilant and careful, be safe; as your family and community need you.

FIDA Nigeria cares about the wellbeing of the family and society, particularly the vulnerable in it.

Closely watch your children/wards and protect them so they are not raped or abused; Adults in confined spaces must avoid antagonizing each other especially when there are already underlining issues with emotional and physical abuse; ensure also that there is no stigmatization of the sick, they need care and protection.

We charge Government (whether Local, State, or Federal) to do its part in providing the necessary medical care and facilities for its citizens especially the vulnerable in society;  ensure adequate medical facilities in close proximity to the people, ensure easy protocols to be observed so it’s not too cumbersome for people who are already vulnerable, keep people at the grassroots properly informed (in simple understandable language); Provide continuous water and electricity supply and security for people and their property at this trying time, provide proper and adequate palliatives that would reach those really in need

FIDA applauds and commends State Governments who have been most proactive at this time. Thank you for your responsible governance.

FIDA Nigeria is committed to providing legal support to the vulnerable. Together we are strong and can overcome any challenge as a family and a nation.

#StaySafe!

Rhoda Prevail Tyoden                                                          

Country Vice President/National President                 

FIDA Nigeria    
                                                                   

Eliana Martins

National Publicity Secretary

FIDA Nigeria