The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) announced on Saturday, January 2, 2021, that the country recorded 576 new cases of COVID-19 and eight additional deaths within 24 hours. This update pushed the nation’s total fatality count to 1,302 deaths since the outbreak began in 2020.
According to the report, Lagos State accounted for the highest number of new infections, followed by the Federal Capital Territory and several other states. The agency stressed that the figures underscored the need for Nigerians to strictly adhere to health guidelines to prevent further spread of the virus.
The NCDC noted that the country was firmly in the grip of a second wave of the pandemic, warning that complacency regarding safety protocols could lead to more devastating outcomes. Citizens were urged to wear face masks, maintain physical distancing, and avoid large gatherings, especially during festive activities.
Health experts also raised concerns that the rising case numbers could place additional pressure on already strained healthcare facilities across the nation.
