The Edo State Government says athletes that will compete at the 2020 National Sports Festival must take COVID-19 vaccines

The Edo State Government says athletes that will compete at the 2020 National Sports Festival must take COVID-19 vaccines before arrival for the country’s showpiece sports event scheduled for Benin City from April 2 to 14.

In a statement on Sunday signed by Edo State Deputy Governor Philip Shaibu, who also doubles as the Chairman, Local Organising Committee of the festival, the state reeled out several guidelines for the event, following an earlier meeting with the Federal Ministry of Youths and Sports Development.

“MOC (Main Organising Committee) has decided that all athletes/officials from the 36 states and the FCT participating in the National Sports Festival must take COVID-19 tests 72 hours before arrival for the tournament,” the statement read in part.

“All athletes/officials are to take COVID-19 vaccines at least 12 days before arrival for the tournament.