The state of Niger has implemented a lockdown as a preventive measure against the spread of the coronavirus. Governor Abubakar Sani Bello announced the lockdown in a state-wide broadcast on March 23. The restrictions include a prohibition on movement from 8am to 8pm and the immediate closure of all Almajiri schools in the state. Additionally, all public gatherings have been banned, with only essential services being allowed to continue. The lockdown will take effect from Wednesday, March 25. The decision to impose these measures was made in response to the emergence of new coronavirus cases in neighboring Abuja, with which Niger State shares a border. The government has taken these steps to protect its residents from the virus.