COVID-19 - US Announces The Death Of Three Nigerians

The Consul General of Nigeria in New York, Mr Benaoyagha Okoyen, has confirmed the death of three Nigerians who lost their lives after contracting the Coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

Okoyen made the announcement during a statement in New York on Saturday evening.

He said one among them, a doctor from Abia, contracted the virus while on duty in New York, the epicentre of the pandemic within the U.S.

The envoy identified  25-year-old Bassey Offiong, a final year Chemical Engineering student of Western Michigan University whose case has been reported by the Nigerian media.

Okoyen said: 

“It is regrettable to announce that three Nigerians have died of COVID-19 within the United State of America.

“The first case was a 60-year-old lady, Hajia Laila Abubakar Ali of Kano descent, who died while receiving treatment at the Lincoln Hospital within the Bronx, New York.

“Secondly, is a 25-year-old Bassey Offiong from Calabar, a final year Chemical Engineering student of Western Michigan University, Kalamazoo, who died at Beaumont Hospital in Royal Oak.

“Unfortunately, the last case was a medical man , Dr Caleb Anya, from Ohafia in Abia State. Who died while rendering service to humanity on the forefront of the battle against the COVID-19 pandemic in ny on April 1.

“On behalf of the Consulate General of Nigeria in New York, I wish to increase our condolences to the families of the deceased Nigerians during this tragic circumstance.’’

The consul general saluted the sacrifice of medical personnel from Nigeria and other essential workers risking their lives on the front line to save lots of others.

“We are particularly very pleased with Nigerian medical professionals within the USA who form a part of the incredible workforce within the service of humanity at this point ,’’ he added.