The index coronavirus case in Nigeria, an Italian who imported the virulent infection to the country,  has now tested negative for the virus.

Commissioner for health, Akin Abayomi, made this know at a press briefing on Thursday.

Abayomi disclosed that the 44-year-old Italian tested negative for the virus.

He, however, said another test would be carried out and if he also tests negative, the patient would be discharged.

“The index case is now negative. The only reason he is still with us is because he needs two negative tests but he is ready and anxious to go,” he said

The man, who flew into Nigeria from Milan, Italy, on February 24, had been receiving treatment at the Infectious Disease Hospital in Yaba, Lagos.