Issues and challenges of coronavirus outbreak in Nigeria

Abstract

Corona-virus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious disease cause by newly disease caused by a newly discovered corona-virus (WHO, 2020). It rapidly emerged as a global health threat, and on the 30th of January, 2020, was declared to be a public health concern of international concern by WHO. Subsequently, the threat was raised to an unprecedented risk level, by its declaration as a pandemic by WHO on the 11th of march 2020. Therefore, this research article focuses specifically on the outbreak of COVID-19 on Nigeria, till date. Its primary aim is to highlight the accompanying reactions, measures, and eminent developments by the Nigeria government in their struggle to curtail the spread, reduce infection rates, and cushion its impact on their economy. The methodology and materials used to carry out this research include, extensive literatures, reviewed to reveal a clearer, and a more complete picture on the lapses of the government in their drive to manage the outbreak. It also points to circumstances which may have made it difficult for the government to respond effectively. Another methodology adopted is qualitative research method, where relevant information from various literary sources were extracted, which informed the conclusion of the research. It concludes that although the efforts of the government could be applauded for their swift response, a lot is still left to be desired in the management of the outbreak. The outbreak has exerted intense pressure on the health systems, posed a challenge to the economic structures of the world, and particularly, that of Nigeria. Thereby worsening its economic crisis, and exposing its citizens to a retinue of vulnerability as a result of non-existent social support
systems.

Keywords: Coronavirus, Economic Impact, Nigeria, Misinformation, Healthcare System.