The Nigerian Federal Government has approved N6.45 billion for the setting up of gas plants in 38 locations nationwide in a bid to enhance the treatment of COVID-19 patients who need oxygen.

This emerged at the first National Economic Council meeting of the year presided over by Vice President YEMI OSINBAJO, with State Governors, Federal Capital Territory Minister, Central Bank Governor, and other senior government officials in attendance.

Briefing the NEC on the release of the funds, the Minister of Finance, Budget and National Planning, ZAINAB AHMED said it was to address shortage of oxygen, necessitated by the increased number of patients who needs it due to the surge in Covid-19 infections in the country.