Govt launches campaign to immunise 2.2m children 

The Federal Government is to launch the biggest immunisation campaign targeted at kids who missed out during the COVID-19 pandemic. Nigeria has 2.2 million unvaccinated children.
Consequently, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has established zero dose learning hubs across the federation.

Meanwhile, inadequate manpower, drugs and commodities, suboptimal capacity and insufficient funding have hindered efforts to launch an effective routine immunisation system.

Speaking at the unveiling of the initiative yesterday in Abuja, NPHCDA’s Executive Director, Dr. Faisal Shuaib, noted that, “a significant portion of our eligible population, particularly children, remains susceptible to vaccine-preventable diseases, often referred to as ‘zero dose’ individuals.”

He admitted that COVID-19 pandemic posed fresh challenges to routine immunisation, resulting in disruptions to coverage rates.

Shuaib expressed happiness that the country had emerged from the crisis with renewed determination to fortify immunisation.

According to him, the goal is to reach every eligible child and ensure that none of them is left vulnerable to vaccine-preventable diseases

He said: “We would be delivering on our commitment that no matter the reason or season, we will ensure every child gets the jab they need. In this ongoing journey, we are committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible and fostering a future where the health and well-being of our children are safeguarded through robust immunisation practices.

“Nigeria, in partnership with Gavi, the vaccine alliance, stands as a pioneering nation in the implementation of this learning hub. It will not only serve as a catalyst for positive change within our borders, but also as a role model to be replicated in other countries.”