Following the panic caused by reports of the detection of a new variant of the Coronavirus (COVID-19 Variant XEC), the Federal Government has debunked the claims.

A statement by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare on Saturday, December 7, said that there is no evidence to show that the disease was detected anywhere across the country.

Alaba Balogun, the deputy director, Information and Public Relations at the ministry said there is no need for citizen’s to panic.

Describing such reports as a hoax, Balogun urged Nigerians to go about their normal activities while adhering strictly to good hygiene practices.

Balogun also stated that the letter being circulated on social media about the disease in Nigeria is false.

The letter, with Ref. No. DHS/INSPDIV/017/VOL.1/46 dated December 5, 2024, suggested that the new strain of the disease was detection in Nigeria.

The COVID-19 variant XEC, a strain of the deadly coronavirus is known for its increased virulence compared to other strains, and recently reported in Australia, and 29 countries.

This new strain of the disease has also raised fears among individuals, organisations and healthcare workers over its perceived impact on the systems across the globe.

However, the Federal Government has reassured Nigerians of its commitment to ensuring all entry points are guarded and proactive measures are taken to strengthen the country’s preparedness for any potential outbreaks.