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  • First Lady flags off National Measles-Rubella Vaccine campaign

    First Lady flags off National Measles-Rubella Vaccine campaign

    • … Calls for mass participation
    • … Campaign targets 100mn Nigerian children — Pate
    • … GAVI pledges $103m support
    • ⁠…Sultan urges advocacy not force for successful campaign

    First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, on Monday, officially flagged off the National Measles-Rubella Vaccine Introduction Integrated Campaign in Abuja, declaring the exercise a collective resolve to end vaccine-preventable childhood diseases and safeguard the nation’s future.

    The First Lady described the flag-off as “a declaration of our collective resolve as a nation to say ‘No More’ to the diseases that steal the future of our sons and daughters.”

    She said measles and rubella remain among the leading causes of blindness, disability, and child mortality, noting that rubella infections during pregnancy could lead to blindness, deafness, or congenital heart defects in unborn children.

    She emphasized that the initiative aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, which seeks to guarantee every Nigerian child a healthy start in life and ensure that no mother dies while giving birth.

    “A vaccine in a vial does not save a child. A vaccine in a clinic does not protect a community. Protection only becomes real when that vaccine is injected into the arm of a child,” she stressed, urging mothers to take their children for vaccination and fathers to support them.

    Senator Tinubu also appealed to traditional and religious leaders to use their influence to dispel misinformation and encourage nationwide participation, noting their previous role in the success of the HPV vaccine rollout.

    She reaffirmed her personal commitment to promoting vaccine uptake and pledged to mobilize State First Ladies, wives of Local Government Chairmen, and women’s groups to ensure no child is left unprotected.

    She lauded the Federal Ministry of Health, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), and development partners—WHO, UNICEF, Gavi, and the Gates Foundation—for their partnership and dedication to Nigeria’s public health goals.

    “With this vaccine, our children will be protected against two deadly diseases and enjoy a lifetime of safety and protection. These vaccines are safe, effective, and free,” she assured.

    Declaring the campaign open, the First Lady said the exercise represents “a pathway to hope and a promise of progress,” praying for divine blessings on Nigerian children, mothers, and the nation.

    The official flag-off of the campaign set in motion a nationwide drive expected to reach approximately 106 million children aged 9 months to under 15 years in two phases.

    The campaign also integrates vaccination efforts against polio and the rollout of the HPV vaccine among adolescent girls, combining resources to optimize health impact.

    Meanwhile, in his address, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, described the event as a “historic moment for Nigeria’s health system,” calling it the largest integrated health campaign on the African continent and possibly anywhere in the world.

    The campaign, he noted, is expected to reach over 100 million Nigerian children, covering measles, rubella, polio, malaria, HPV, routine immunization, and neglected tropical diseases.

    He said the initiative reflects the vision of President Tinubu, who has prioritized health as a key pillar of national development.

    “The President is healing this country, unifying it through health, and inspiring national confidence,” Pate said, crediting the Renewed Hope Agenda for repositioning healthcare delivery in Nigeria.

    Pate revealed that primary health care utilization had risen dramatically—from 10 million visits per quarter in 2023 to 47 million in the second quarter of 2025, while the government plans to make 4,800 additional PHCs fully functional by the end of 2025.

    He disclosed that 15,000 women have benefited from the Free Emergency Obstetric Care Initiative, with hundreds of thousands more enrolled under the Mothers and Babies Implementation (MaMi) programme.

    He further praised the First Lady for her “time, treasure, and talent” in championing maternal and child health, particularly through her Renewed Hope Initiative.

    The Minister also commended Nigeria’s traditional and religious leaders for their role in improving immunization coverage and eradicating polio. He paid tribute to frontline health workers who, he said, “risk their lives to deliver vaccines and healthcare services to the last mile.”

    “As Her Excellency flags off this campaign today, let us join her with conviction. The children we vaccinate and the trust we build will define the health legacy of an entire generation,” Pate charged.

    Also speaking, Minister of Education, Olatunji Alausa, warned that sanctions would be imposed on school administrators who sabotage the government’s vaccination efforts by shutting out vaccinators from schools.

    Represented by Deputy Director in the ministry, Peter Ojonuba, he described the campaign as not just a vaccination drive but a critical investment in Nigeria’s future and educational progress, saying, “It is a day to ignite hope for healthier children, stronger communities, and a bright future for our beloved Nigeria.”

    He stressed the grave threats posed by measles, one of the leading causes of vaccine-preventable deaths in children under five, and rubella, which can cause lifelong disabilities when contracted during pregnancy.

    Stressing the linkage between health and education, the Minister noted, “a child who is sick cannot attend school. A healthy child is a teachable child. Illnesses like measles and rubella disrupt school attendance, impair cognitive development, and place undue burdens on families and the education system.”

    He pledged the Ministry of Education’s full support, with schools as platforms for vaccination awareness and delivery.

    Addressing potential obstructionists, Alausa stated firmly, “For those administrators who sabotage the efforts of government by shutting out vaccinators from educational settings, know that there are consequences.”

    Speaking on behalf of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Deputy Director of Immunization and Disease Control in Nigeria, Yusuf Yusufari, said the Foundation remains steadfast in supporting Nigeria’s immunization and primary healthcare drive.

    He recalled that two years earlier, under the First Lady’s leadership, Nigeria successfully introduced the HPV vaccine, becoming “a global exemplar in protecting girls against cervical cancer.”

    “Today, like we did two years ago, we stand united behind one goal: that no child and no woman in Nigeria—or anywhere—should be left unprotected from preventable diseases,” Yusufari said.

    He cited Nigeria’s progress in routine immunization, which has risen from 33% in 2016 to over 60% today, alongside new vaccine introductions such as pneumococcal, rotavirus, HPV, and now measles-rubella.

    However, he warned that over two million Nigerian children remain zero-dose, meaning they have not received a single vaccine, the second-highest figure globally.

    The 2025 integrated campaign, he said, aims to close this gap by reaching 106 million children across all 36 states and the FCT, with 21 states combining measles-rubella and polio vaccines and four states adding malaria nets, deworming, and other essential services.

    “This integrated approach saves caregivers time, maximizes resources, and strengthens trust in the health system,” Yusufari said, adding that the Foundation will continue to work with the Nigerian government and partners to “act together, reach every child, and secure Nigeria’s future.”

    He reaffirmed the Foundation’s long-term commitment under Bill Gates’ $200 billion, 20-year global health investment plan, emphasizing that Nigeria’s success will “inspire the world with what is possible when unity and urgency meet purpose.”

    Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, Senior Programme Manager for Nigeria, Tarcile Mballa, highlighted the historic partnership between Gavi and Nigeria that has spanned two decades, with investments exceeding $2.6 billion.

    “We have witnessed immunization coverage rise from 27% in 2001 to 67% in 2024, a testament to collective commitment,” she said.

    Mballa stated Gavi’s contribution to the current campaign totals $103 million in operational support, vaccines, and technical assistance.

    She emphasized the ambitious scope of the campaign, describing it as a convergence of “ambition and opportunity” with Nigeria leading public health innovation on the continent.

    Mballa referenced Nigeria’s recent successful rollout of the HPV vaccine, which has protected over 15 million girls from cervical cancer, as a strong precedent for the integrated approach. She noted the campaign’s complexity requires strong systems and “adaptive strategies,” highlighting Nigeria’s robust leadership and collaboration from federal to community levels.

    “The establishment of real-time coordination platforms, strengthened community engagement, and rapid decision-making mechanisms will ensure every child and their caregiver are safely catered to,” Mballa affirmed.

    On his part, the Ooni of Ife, Adeyeye Ogunwusi, humorously revealed that he initially thought “rubella” was an award, not realizing it was actually a serious disease threatening Nigerian children.

    The traditional ruler stressed the importance of protecting children’s health as a national priority.

    Describing rubella, the Ooni said, “About a year ago, when the team of Dr Aina came to me, I thought rubella was a beautiful award they were bringing to traditional rulers, not knowing that it’s a disease. You look at the way it sounds — rubella — it sounds very positive, but it’s a killer disease.”

    He praised the efforts of health officials and public officers for their dedication in sensitizing Nigerians about rubella and other deadly diseases.

    “We are all aware of measles, but I am very positive many here have never heard of rubella, like me. We must continue to create awareness throughout the country,” he said.

    The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Sa’ad Abubakar III, has emphasized that advocacy and education, rather than enforcement, will be crucial for Nigeria’s rubella vaccine campaign to succeed. Speaking at a recent national health event, he recalled the country’s successful polio eradication efforts, attributing it to community persuasion rather than coercion.

    “We defeated polio not by force but by convincing people that the vaccine is safe. We held seminars with religious leaders to educate communities and show that the vaccine is not anti-childbirth or harmful in any way,” the Sultan said.

    He stressed the importance of ongoing education and the role of traditional and religious leaders in increasing vaccine acceptance.

    The Sultan praised the commitment of the First Lady, describing her efforts across the nation as inspiring.

    “Her total commitment strengthens us, and we fully support government programs that advance the health of our nation,” he added.

    Calling on all stakeholders, the Sultan urged, “Parents, caregivers, governors, and their wives must join hands to drive this campaign forward through positive advocacy, not force.” He expressed confidence that through this inclusive approach, Nigeria will achieve a healthier future for its children.

    President of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Daniel Okoh, expressed profound support and optimism for the initiative aimed at protecting children and strengthening public health nationwide.

    He described the campaign as a golden opportunity to reduce preventable childhood deaths and strengthen public health in our nation.

  • FG targets 1.8 million unvaccinated children with ₦303 billion Gavi grant

    FG targets 1.8 million unvaccinated children with ₦303 billion Gavi grant

    The federal government has launched the third phase of the Health Systems Strengthening (HSS3) grant, a $191 million (₦303 billion) initiative supported by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, aimed at improving immunisation coverage and primary healthcare across the country over the next four years.

    Speaking at the launch event in Abuja, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, described the grant as a strategic contribution aligned with Nigeria’s national health priorities, including the Health Sector Renewal Initiative and the Presidential Health Compact signed in December 2023. 

    He praised Gavi’s consistent partnership, which has saved millions of lives, helped Nigeria recover from the COVID-19 pandemic, and enabled the introduction of vaccines for HPV, malaria and Mpox.

    Pate reaffirmed the government’s commitment to equitable, accessible healthcare under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. 

    He emphasized health as a core democratic dividend, pointing to increased domestic funding and improved coordination under the Sector-Wide Approach. 

    All donor contributions, including Gavi’s, he said, will be matched with domestic resources and used transparently.

    NPHCDA Executive Director, Dr. Muyi Aina, described HSS3 as the result of inclusive collaboration among government, partners and civil society. 

    He noted that HSS2 had already helped reach over 1.7 million zero-dose children, while over 91 million children under five were vaccinated against measles during recent campaigns. 

    He also highlighted major gains such as HPV vaccination of 13.5 million girls, malaria vaccine rollout in Bayelsa and Kebbi, and the introduction of Mpox and yellow fever vaccines.

    Aina stressed that routine immunisation campaigns are being reformed for greater efficiency, with enhanced vaccine delivery systems, collaborations with security agencies, and support from traditional and religious leaders. 

    Read Also: Nigeria sustains polio drive amid vaccine-derived risk, says WHO

    He called for continued public engagement, stressing the government’s increasing financial commitment to immunisation.

    Gavi’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Dr. Sania Nishtar, Alex de Jonquieres said Gavi has supported the immunisation of 62 million Nigerian children and helped avert more than 2 million deaths with over $2.4 billion in investments. 

    The new HSS3 grant, according to her, targets 1.8 million zero-dose children and aims to boost national immunisation coverage to 84 percent by 2028.

    Since 2018, she noted that Gavi has procured $1.1 billion worth of vaccines for Nigeria under a 10-year strategy, with one-third funded by the Nigerian government. 

    The efforts include the introduction of nine new vaccines and ongoing investment in measles-rubella campaigns targeting over 100 million children, she added.

    Despite progress, she noted that Nigeria remains home to the highest number of zero-dose children

    She, however revealed that Gavi is also investing $100 million dollars this year in a measles and rubella campaign for over 100 million children. 

    Nishtar urged greater domestic investment and accountability to ensure lasting impact.

    The World Health Organisation (WHO) Country Representative, Walter Mulombo, called immunisation the backbone of primary healthcare and praised the joint planning of HSS3. 

    He urged Nigeria to lead globally by example, emphasizing a rights-based approach to healthcare while noting that gaps in routine coverage and dose completion, especially for the malaria vaccine must be addressed. 

    WHO pledged full support, including for new initiatives like the Double Eight cervical cancer strategy.

    The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Representative, Cristian Munduate, acknowledged the progress made through innovations such as solar-powered cold chains and e-logistics but highlighted persistent challenges in leadership, accountability, data systems and last-mile delivery. 

    She called for sustained investment in both infrastructure and people, saying HSS3 can be a turning point if matched by unified commitment at all levels.

  • Why vaccine financing should be a first-line charge, by stakeholders

    Why vaccine financing should be a first-line charge, by stakeholders

    The Vaccine Network for Disease Control (VNDC) has called on the Federal Government to prioritize vaccine financing by placing it on first-line charge in the national budget. 

    According to the group, the measure is critical to ensuring the timely release and sustainability of immunization programs across the country.

    At a press conference in Abuja on Monday, stakeholders acknowledged President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s recent healthcare strides, including the ₦231.7 billion allocation for immunization in the 2025 budget and the proposed ₦1 trillion investment in Primary Healthcare Centres, both of which immunization efforts are expected to benefit from.

    However, they warned that without a predictable and reliable funding structure, the progress made risks being reversed.

    The press briefing, themed ‘Future of Immunization Financing: Leaving No One Behind’, was organized by VNDC in collaboration with the Global Health Advocacy Incubator (GHAI). 

    The event brought together vaccine advocates, public health experts, and government officials, including a validation workshop focused on building an economic case for immunization financing.

    VNDC Chief Executive Officer, Chika Offor noted that vaccine funding has often suffered from delays, recalling that in 2023, funds from the 2022 and 2023 vaccine budgets were still outstanding despite continued advocacy. 

    Although she acknowledged that the funds were eventually released by the end of 2024 along with 25% of the 2024 allocation, a move she commended the government for, she, nonetheless lamented that the funding system remains fragile.

    “With USAID withdrawing and donor support waning, Nigeria must take full ownership of its immunization financing.

    “Without a dependable funding structure, we put millions of children at risk. Immunization must be treated with the urgency of salaries, delays cost lives,” she said 

    Offor emphasized that immunization is one of the most cost-effective health interventions, citing gains such as the eradication of wild polio, protection of over 30 million children, and HPV vaccine coverage reaching more than 12 million girls. 

    Yet, Nigeria remains among the countries with the highest number of zero-dose children, those who have never received a routine vaccine, she said.

    Read Also: Fighting vaccine-preventable diseases with routine immunisation

    “The worst scenario is when a mother brings her child to a health center only to be told vaccines are unavailable. From procurement to delivery, the system must work seamlessly,” she stressed.

    On long-term goals, Offor acknowledged progress toward local vaccine production, noting that Nigeria recently received $2 million from Gavi to begin this process, but cautioned that manufacturing vaccines is a complex and capital-intensive endeavour that will take time. 

    According to Offor, the Validation Workshop aims to help stakeholders recognize vaccines not just as health tools, but as economic assets, adding that the impact of preventable diseases extends far beyond hospitals.

    “Sick children pull caregivers out of work, reduce household income, and weaken the economy. Every ₦1 invested in immunization yields ₦44 in economic return. That’s a compelling reason to act,” she said.

    Stressing the need to safeguard current supply chains and ensure consistent funding, Offor also argued that the private sector needs to play a more active role, citing the success of the Coalition Against COVID-19 (CACOVID) in supporting vaccine rollout during the pandemic. 

    “Government alone cannot do it, we need a business case for vaccines, one that shows the private sector what’s in it for them.

    “Investing in vaccines is not just a health imperative, it’s an investment in Nigeria’s future. We must act now to ensure that no child is left behind,” she said.

    Sen. Ibrahim Oloriegbe, Chairman of the National Health Insurance Authority (NHIA), echoed the call for strategic investment, noting that increased funding is not just about spending more, but about achieving consistent, long-term access to life-saving vaccines.

    “Vaccination ensures survival, reduces disability, and supports national productivity. The cost of preventable illness, lost income, and medical expenses can devastate families and communities,” he added

    Oloriegbe called for innovative thinking, suggesting the immunization space could benefit from a model similar to the Tertiary Education Trust Fund (TETFund), which transformed Nigeria’s higher education sector.

    Other speakers, including Emmanuel Alhassan of GHAI and Hon. Mohammed Usman, former Deputy Chair of the 8th House House of Representatives Committee on Health Services, reinforced the call for sustainable domestic funding. 

    Usman pointed out that Nigeria’s natural resources, especially the untapped resources if well-managed, could eliminate the gap in vaccine financing.

    Aanu Rotimi, representing Civil Society Organisations (CSOs), also emphasized that investing in vaccines and immunization is essential to securing Nigeria’s future.

    The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) also lent their voices, emphasizing the need for Nigeria to transition from reliance on foreign aid to a more self-sufficient immunization funding model.

  • Vaccine financing: VNDC laments bureaucratic bottlenecks, delayed fund releases 

    Vaccine financing: VNDC laments bureaucratic bottlenecks, delayed fund releases 

    The Vaccine Network for Disease Control (VNDC) has called for an urgent need for timely budget releases of vaccine funds to strengthen immunization programs to address the growing challenge of children who have never received any vaccines. 

    The organization has also called for a simplified fund release process of budgetary allocation for vaccines, stressing that the extant process is cumbersome and time-consuming, with avoidable implications for the intended health outcomes of vaccination.

    The organization stressed that the wake-up call becomes imperative as Nigeria remains the country with the highest number of zero-dose children, reflecting critical gaps in immunization coverage.

    VNDC, however, underscored the need for media support in amplifying advocacy to policymakers and other critical stakeholders to reinforce their support for vaccine financing and the general public’s education on the importance of children’s vaccination and why they should demand it as a matter of right.

    Chika Nwankwo, Head of Programs at VNDC, speaking at the sidelines of a capacity building workshop on Media Advocacy for Vaccination Financing, themed ‘Spotlighting the Significance of Media Advocacy in Vaccination Financing’ in Abuja on Tuesday, however, highlighted notable progress made under the current administration but emphasized that delays in funding releases still pose significant hurdles to ensuring vaccines reach underserved areas.  

    Providing insights into Nigeria’s vaccine financing progress and challenges, Nwankwo said, “In 2022, Domestic Resource Mobilization (DRM) funds for immunization were not fully released, and by early 2023, nothing had been allocated. 

    “However, this administration has shown commitment by releasing the entirety of 2023 allocation by October last year and 25 percent of the 2024 immunization budget already. 

    “This government has also increased vaccine allocation by a hundred percent, which is very commendable even as we hope that it would be further increase with 2025 budget.

    Read Also: Malaria vaccine for launch today in Bayelsa, Kebbi

    “Despite this improvement, much more remains to be done. The scorecard still reflects red, and we must continue to push for full and timely releases.”  

    According to her, bureaucratic delays continue to hinder the release of immunization funds due to the complexities of the process, noting, “The release process involves up to 27 steps, with the Ministry of Finance alone accounting for 20 of those steps. 

    “This lengthy system creates unnecessary delays, and sometimes a memo lands on the wrong table or sits too long because the urgency is not understood.”  

    She underscored the link between timely funding and immunization outcomes, saying, “Without timely financing, we cannot reduce the number of zero-dose children. 

    “Immunization is the only way to ensure children are protected against preventable diseases, but delays mean vaccines arrive late or not at all. 

    “Nigeria currently has the highest number of zero-dose children in the world, and we cannot change this reality without addressing these funding delays,” she lamented. 

    Highlighting the media’s role as a key partner in raising awareness and holding policymakers accountable, she said, “We see the media as partners in progress.

    “If you amplify your voices, you can create national and international attention that drives change. We need the media to highlight these issues through investigative reporting and impactful storytelling.”  

    “Continuous engagement with stakeholders with your powerful tool, especially those in the Ministry of Finance and Health, will ensure the process becomes more seamless.”  

    “Our goal is to ensure that in 2024, the funds are fully released on time. Looking ahead to 2025, we want to see 100 percent budget releases completed within the year. 

    “Streamlining the process and shortening the steps can make the system both efficient and effective.”  

    On her part, Rachael Abujah, VNDC Media Consultant outlined the implications of the delayed fund releases, saying, “These delays have far-reaching implications for communities in hard-to-reach areas where logistical challenges already complicate vaccine delivery. 

    “There are places like the Mambila Plateau in Taraba State and the riverine areas of Bayelsa State where vaccines are extremely difficult to get to. 

    “The delayed release of funds has a direct impact on Nigeria’s zero-dose children crisis. 

    “It is crucial for the media to use its platforms to amplify advocacy messages, highlight the human cost of delays, and hold decision-makers accountable. 

    “By working together, it is a collective responsibility to ensure that vaccines reach every Nigerian child, no matter where they live, to reduce the country’s burden of zero-dose children,” Abujah noted.

  • World leaders launch $1b programme to boost vaccine production in Africa

    World leaders launch $1b programme to boost vaccine production in Africa

    • AU chief lauds initiative

    French President Emmanuel Macron has joined several African leaders to kick off a planned $1.1 billion project to accelerate vaccine production in Africa, after the COVID-19 pandemic exposed inequalities in access to inoculation.

    The launch of the African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator at an event in Paris yesterday will provide financial incentives to boost local vaccine manufacturing in the continent.

    African Union Commission chief Moussa Faki Mahamat welcomed the initiative, saying that it “could become a catalyst for promoting the pharmaceutical industry in Africa and fostering collaboration between member states”.

    Africa imports “99 percent of its vaccines at an exorbitant cost”, he said.

    Macron said the programme “will be an essential step towards a genuine African vaccine market”.

    The European Union said the bloc and its member states will contribute $800m to the vaccine manufacturing scheme. It said the programme will offset start-up costs and ensure demand for vaccines made in Africa.

    “Importantly, it will also support the sustainable growth of Africa’s manufacturing base and contribute to the African Union’s ambition to produce most vaccines required by African countries on the continent,” the EU said in a statement.

    Many African leaders and advocacy groups say Africa was unfairly locked out of access to COVID-19 treatment tools, vaccines and testing equipment — which many richer countries bought up in huge quantities — after the pandemic was declared in 2020.

    Helen Rees, Executive Director of Wits RHI at the University of the Witwatersrand, said the COVID pandemic revealed the lack of equity in access to vaccines.

    “By the time we got really good access to vaccines here [in Africa], many countries had already experienced COVID outbreaks, many people had immunity from natural infection. The impact of the vaccines was much less here simply because we got them too late,” she told Al Jazeera.

    “COVID started a dialogue about access to vaccines, medicines and diagnostics – everything you need to control outbreaks and to stop vaccine-preventable diseases. And that dialogue is centred around equity and how we increase access in the African region.”

    The World Health Organization (WHO) and advocacy groups want to help Africa better prepare for the next pandemic, which many health experts say is inevitable.

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    “There is no doubt that the delays in reaching low-income countries and communities with vaccines cost lives,” WHO chief Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus said on Thursday. “We cannot allow the same thing to happen next time. And there will be a next time.”

    When the coronavirus pandemic began, South Africa was the only country in the continent with any ability to produce vaccines, officials say, and Africa produced a tiny fraction of all vaccines worldwide.

    WHO failed in its efforts to help countries agree to a “pandemic treaty” – to improve preparedness and response to pandemics – before its annual meeting last month.

    The project was shelved largely due to disagreements over sharing information about pathogens that cause epidemics and the high-tech tools used to fight them.

    Negotiators will resume work on the treaty in hopes of clinching a deal by the next WHO annual meeting in 2025.

  • How Nigeria can raise immunisation bar, by vaccine expert

    How Nigeria can raise immunisation bar, by vaccine expert

    Nigeria is still playing catch-up with the rest of the world in its immunization programme, says Christiana Fashola, a global vaccine expert with extensive experience in designing and implementing effective vaccine delivery strategies across Africa, Central Asia and Latin America. Fashola, who has provided technical support to governments, public agencies and National Immunization Technical Advisory Groups (NITAGs) to evaluate evidence, guide vaccine recommendations, and design interventions to improve health outcomes and build resilient health systems, outlines several strategies to bridge the gaps hindering an effective immunization programme and achieve the nation’s Universal Health Coverage (UHC) 2030 target. She spoke with DELE ANOFI.

    Is the current immunization approach sufficient to cover the entire country, including hard-to-reach and underserved areas, considering the precarious security situation and the fast-approaching 2030 Universal Health Coverage target?

    The current immunization strategy in Nigeria, which relies heavily on scheduled immunization days, mass vaccination campaigns, outreach programmes and immunization intensification activities, is likely insufficient to achieve rapid and comprehensive coverage across the entire country. The precarious security situation further complicates these efforts. To accelerate progress and meet the 2030 Universal Health Coverage target, exploring and implementing alternative strategies is essential.

    One of the key challenges in healthcare is the insufficiency of Human Resources for Health (HRH), which has impacted the immunization workforce. An alternative approach that could be explored by the government is the establishment of a greater healthcare delivery workforce by leveraging the full potential of community pharmacies and pharmacists in routine immunization activities.

    This could potentially increase immunization coverage and improve the life-course approach to vaccination, including adult vaccination. While an intersectoral approach has been utilised for the introduction of some vaccines such as the COVID-19 and HPV vaccines, strong consideration should be given to including pharmacies and pharmacists, as they have a crucial role to play in expanding immunization access and coverage for millions of Nigerians.

    Additionally, Nigeria accounts for 20% of all out-of-school children in sub-Saharan Africa, with nearly 20 million out-of-school children. Utilization of community pharmacies and pharmacists will provide a solid platform to reach out-of-school adolescent girls in various regions. A survey carried out by the International Pharmaceutical Federation (FIP) in 2016 revealed that community pharmacies in a sample of 45 countries and territories, representing over 940 million people, including Nigeria, can potentially offer increased access to vaccination services with safe and highly accessible vaccination centres. Hence, there is a compelling need for the Nigerian government to strongly consider involving community pharmacies and pharmacists in the conduct of routine immunization services. This will contribute to the development and increased access to health services, enhancing the implementation of immunization services, especially adult vaccination, thereby improving the health system and reducing vaccine-preventable diseases.

    Having successfully immunised approximately five million adolescents in 15 states during the first phase of the human papilloma virus (HPV) vaccine programme, do you think we have done enough addressing resistance to vaccinations even among people that were supposedly educated enough to appreciate the development? If not, what do you think is the way forward?

    The successful roll-out of HPV vaccine in 15 states during the first phase of the HPV vaccine programme is a significant achievement. This success indicates that the programme has effectively addressed some aspects of resistance to vaccinations. However, challenges such as misinformation and misconceptions, cultural beliefs, and mistrust in the healthcare system still persist, even among educated populations.

    By implementing targeted communication strategies, including grassroots advocacy efforts and risk communications tailored to various target groups, as well as engaging educational institutions, and continuously monitoring and evaluation of implemented strategies, Nigeria can further reduce resistance to the HPV vaccine and enhance overall immunization coverage.

    Other advocacy efforts to consider include the continued organisation of intergenerational dialogues. These dialogues provide opportunities for adolescents within the target age group, parents/caregivers, and community leaders to discuss their fears and concerns regarding the vaccine, offering a platform to address these challenges.

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    Intergenerational dialogues bring together community members of various age groups to exchange views and opinions in an open and safe environment. The aim is to create awareness about the benefits of the vaccine, and change the community’s negative perceptions, attitudes, myths and beliefs.

    Do you have any concerns or optimism about the upcoming second phase of the HPV vaccination programme, given that the first phase achieved an 80% success rate?

    Given that Nigeria contributes 12,075 new cases of cervical cancer globally every year, which makes cervical cancer the second leading cause of female cancer deaths in Nigeria, the successful first phase of the HPV vaccine roll-out provides a solid foundation for optimism in reducing this burden. By leveraging the lessons learned and best practices from the first phase, addressing resource and logistical challenges, and implementing targeted communication and outreach strategies, Nigeria can achieve high coverage in the ongoing second phase of the vaccine roll-out. The success of the first phase will likely increase awareness and trust in the HPV vaccine among the population in other states, further enhancing the programme’s overall effectiveness

    With the global acknowledgement of Nigeria’s efforts in its immunization programme, is there any need for her to change her winning formula?

    To improve immunization coverage in Nigeria, increased financing and political commitment at both national and sub-national levels are crucial. To provide context, Nigeria is among the 73 Gavi-implementing nations that have received support for delivering immunization-related services, including the introduction of new vaccines. The country began transitioning to self-financing after exceeding Gavi’s support threshold from 2016 to 2018. Progress towards self-financing vaccines by the Nigerian government has been made through the development of the Nigeria Strategy for Immunization and PHC System Strengthening (NSIPSS), which aims to boost investment in immunization and primary healthcare. This effort is supported by an Accountability Framework (AF) to track commitments. Additionally, domestic vaccine financing has increased by 34.2% rise from 2019 to 2023, with high-level discussions to make vaccine financing a statutory budget item to avoid bureaucratic delays.

    Since 2019, the government has created a budget line for vaccine financing and continues to make annual incremental provisions. Future plans include making vaccine financing a first-line charge item in the national budget, ensuring it is a statutory allocation from consolidated revenue.

    Despite the progress made in immunization financing, financial stability for sustaining and expanding immunization efforts remains uncertain due to fiscal constraints and the imminent need to introduce new vaccines such as Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and Varicella Zoster Vaccines.

    To sustain and enhance the gains in immunization and the introduction of newer vaccines, the Nigerian government needs timely stakeholder engagement; accurate vaccine forecasting using advanced predictive modeling techniques to reduce the discrepancies between projected and actual vaccine needs; robust advocacy efforts; sustainable financing, particularly at sub-national levels; and continuous accountability tracking to assess progress and identify areas needing improvement.

    By focusing on these areas, Nigeria can better ensure the sustainability of its immunization programmes and the successful introduction of new vaccines, thereby protecting more of its population against preventable diseases.

  • Strengthening vaccine production to safeguard health security in Africa

    Strengthening vaccine production to safeguard health security in Africa

    The imperative for Africa to prioritise vaccine production for its populace has been underscored by UN Secretary-General, Antonio Guterres. He has emphasised vaccine equity as “the most significant moral challenge facing the global community.” This call gained prominence in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, which laid bare the vulnerabilities of Africa’s health systems and emphasized the pressing need for the continent to attain self-sufficiency in tackling public health crises. The pandemic served as a stark reminder of the paramount significance of ensuring fair access to medical countermeasures, encompassing vaccines, diagnostics, and therapeutics, to protect the health and welfare of communities.

     During the 3rd International Conference on Public Health in Africa (CPHIA) in Zambia, a crucial session centred on the theme ‘Fostering African-led Innovation: Advancing Local Production in Vaccines, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics.’ The discussions delved into the challenges, opportunities, and strategic actions necessary to propel vaccine manufacturing on the continent. In 2021, the African Union, in collaboration with member states and partners, established an ambitious target: achieving a minimum of 60 per cent vaccine manufacturing on the continent by 2040. Similar to the principles of good governance, which include ensuring national security, infrastructure, and access to potable drinking water for the public good, the production of vaccines is advocated as a global public good. Acknowledging the intricate nature of the vaccine production process, involving substantial financing, specialised equipment, inputs, storage facilities, and skilled labor, the importance of ensuring access to vaccines is underscored, with the potential to profoundly impact public health and the overall well-being of the population.

     The Institut Pasteur in Dakar, a distinguished biomedical research centre specialising in the study of infectious diseases, particularly those impacting Africa, is actively engaged in research and development initiatives for vaccines against various infectious diseases. Not only does the institute contribute to addressing immediate health challenges, but it is also actively involved in building the region’s capacity to combat future pandemics and fulfil Africa’s routine immunisation requirements. Despite these commendable efforts, there remains a pressing need to intensify actions and mobilise resources to propel the vaccine development process further and realize the overarching goal.

     Africa bears a significant burden of the world’s infectious diseases, placing a disproportionate weight on the continent. To alleviate this challenge and foster self-sufficiency, promoting local African-led innovation in vaccine production is crucial. Establishing and maintaining manufacturing facilities necessitates enhanced collaboration between member states, addressing infrastructure gaps in areas like electricity supply and transportation. Highlighting the significance of partnerships, Dr. Jean Kaseya, Director General of the Africa Centre for Disease Control, stressed the need for a robust ecosystem capable of producing vaccines and medical products tailored to the continent’s needs. Acknowledging the deficiency in infrastructure and technical expertise, he stressed the importance of creating a harmonised system.

     At the 3rd International Conference on Public Health in Africa, Dr. Kaseya reiterated the imperative for African-led innovation in local vaccine manufacturing. Delegates underscored the importance of adequate funding for research and development to cultivate an environment conducive to innovation. Such investments, propelled by collaborations between governments, the private sector, and international partners, are vital for progress. Regulatory processes emerged as another critical point. Streamlining regulations across African countries, fostering cross-border collaboration, and facilitating the movement of medical products are imperative. Harmonizing standards ensures that locally manufactured goods adhere to international quality benchmarks, promoting the credibility and efficacy of African-produced vaccines and medical products.

     With the United Nations projecting that Africa’s population will nearly reach 2.5 billion by 2050, it becomes imperative to align the vaccine production agenda with the needs of the growing African population. While prioritizing research and development in vaccine production is crucial, equal emphasis should be placed on ensuring vaccine demand and effective distribution mechanisms to meet the continent’s evolving healthcare requirements. During a plenary session, Ms. Shingai Machingaidze, Acting Chief Science Officer and Senior Science Officer at the Africa Centre for Disease Control, underscored the need for Africa to take the lead in investing in vaccine development for diseases such as Lassa fever. These diseases are more prevalent within the continent, making it essential for Africa to proactively invest in developing vaccines tailored to its specific health challenges. This strategic approach not only addresses regional health priorities but also positions Africa as a key player in advancing healthcare solutions for its own population.

     ‘’These diseases are found in our countries, this means our governments, our researchers, our scientists must be the ones to prioritise vaccine production. A lot of the times, we are waiting for someone externally to come and help us solve a problem that we have that they don’t have.’’ Machingaidze said.

     The drive to fortify Africa against vaccine-preventable diseases received a substantial boost as Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, pledged $1.8 billion to enhance Africa’s vaccine manufacturing capabilities. The Gavi Board’s announcement of the African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator (AVMA) was welcomed by the Africa CDC, marking a significant step toward establishing a sustainable vaccine manufacturing industry on the continent. This financial support aims to empower African countries to achieve vaccine manufacturing goals by 2040, reducing dependence on external sources and fortifying the continent against future pandemics and disease outbreaks.

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     The imperative for Africa to embark on developing vaccines tailored to its specific needs is underscored. In an interview at the CPHIA, Prof. Abderrahmane Maaroufi, Director of Institut Pasteur Maroc (National Public Health Institute), highlighted four crucial pillars for African vaccine manufacturing one of which is political commitment. Prof. Maaroufi emphasised the pivotal role of political commitment from health policymakers across member states. This commitment is vital in mobilising local manufacturers and fostering efficient Public-Private Partnerships for local vaccine production. Morocco serves as an example, where a significant percentage of vaccines is supplied by the Ministry of Health, illustrating the synchronization between the public and private sectors driven by political commitment. This commitment lays the foundation for effective collaboration, ensuring the demand, supply, and utilisation of locally produced vaccines, marking a crucial step in Africa’s journey toward vaccine self-sufficiency.

     Capacity building in Africa must strategically centre on elevating human competencies in vaccine and health product manufacturing. Recognising the pivotal role of a skilled workforce in driving these initiatives, training and developing competent professionals become imperative. This comprehensive approach should extend to the establishment of platforms and infrastructure capable of supporting manufacturing activities across the continent. By investing in the training and development of individuals, Africa can cultivate a workforce equipped with the knowledge and skills essential for successful vaccine production.

     To ensure the production of high-quality products and instil trust in locally manufactured items among the population, the establishment of a robust regulatory system is paramount. This system should uphold high standards and rules, providing a framework for the oversight and governance of vaccine manufacturing processes. Effective regulation not only safeguards the quality of products but also fosters confidence among both healthcare professionals and the general public. By prioritizing stringent regulatory practices, Africa can fortify its vaccine manufacturing landscape and contribute to global health standards.4. Sustained funding: Significant funding is essential for vaccine manufacturing, making local resource mobilisation crucial. One effective mechanism to facilitate and attract local investment is through Public-Private Partnerships.

     As the landscape of vaccine manufacturing undergoes dynamic changes, African leaders play a pivotal role in shaping policies that encourage knowledge sharing, technological transfer, and collaboration. Bridging the gap between high-income countries (HIC) and lower-middle-income countries (LMIC) is essential, especially concerning health security and vaccine production. African nations can benefit from cooperative initiatives that facilitate the exchange of expertise, technology, and resources to bolster their own capabilities. Africa has the potential to redefine its global health role by taking the lead in local vaccine, diagnostics, and therapeutics manufacturing. Strategic investments, partnerships, and innovation are key to realising this vision. By actively engaging in these initiatives, the continent can strengthen its healthcare system, ensuring robustness and resilience. This proactive approach not only enhances Africa’s health security but also positions the continent as a key player in shaping global health outcomes. It underscores the importance of self-sufficiency and the ability to address health challenges from a position of strength.

  • Embrace HPV vaccine, others, Perm Sec tells council residents

    Embrace HPV vaccine, others, Perm Sec tells council residents

    The Permanent Secretary, Health District IV in the Lagos state Ministry of Health, Dr Abimbola Bowale, has urged residents of Lagos Island and environs to embrace the HPV vaccine being administered on women across the state .

    He said the vaccines and all other ones being given out have no side effects.

    Dr Bowale spoke during a sensitisation meeting and engagement with community stakeholders at the Christ Church Cathedral Primary School, Lagos Island.

    He explained that immunization has been used to eradicate diseases in the past and has been brought back once again to help fight against cancer and other diseases.

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    “For a very long time, immunization has been deployed or has been used to eliminate certain diseases that affect humans. There was a time that small pox was a killer disease but it is no longer with us because immunization was deployed and then it was given to people all over the world. Today, small pox has been eradicated. So many other diseases too that usually kill people in the past have been eradicated using immunization,” he said.

    According to him, government introduced the HPV vaccine to prevent certain form of cancer and this cancer kills a lot of our women.

    Dr Bowale assured Lagosians that there are no side effects to the vaccines being given out and they should shun all forms of rumours as regards the HPV vaccine.

    Chairman of Lagos Island East Local Council Development Area Muibi Folawiyo urged the leadership of various Community Development Areas (CDAs) to educate residents on the need to embrace the vaccine.

    “Our female children should go and get the vaccine. We need to stay clear of cancer and protect ourselves from other diseases,” he said.

  • FG advances plans for local vaccine manufacturing

    FG advances plans for local vaccine manufacturing

    In its stride towards self-sufficiency in vaccine production, the federal government has undertaken a comprehensive review and validation of the National Plan for Vaccine Research & Development and Manufacturing in Nigeria. 

    The move aligns with the Four Point Agenda health sector objectives of the Renewed Hope Agenda of the government, aiming to bolster local manufacturing and eliminate dependency on imported vaccines.

    The National plan, a first of its kind in Africa, was initially developed in 2021 and delineates the roles of key stakeholders in Nigeria’s vaccine landscape. 

    At a review and validation meeting organized by the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) in Abuja over the weekend, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Tunji Alausa, expressed optimism about the tangible outcomes of the Government’s efforts in local vaccine production.

    He said the efforts over the years to commence local vaccines production is already yielding the expected results.

    According to him, the review and validation meeting provided critical stakeholders and policy-makers the opportunity to address critical healthcare issues, while noting that it will enhance Nigeria’s entry of the pharmaceutical sector into the larger African market.

    Saying that the review and validation of the Draft Roadmap will fast-tract the achievement of the vaccine policy objectives of the federal government, Alausa, noted: “With this initiative, I am confident that the government prioritization as regards local vaccine production will begin to yield the desired result within the shortest possible time, and the reliance on importation of this important public health tool will be drastically reduced.

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    “The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare will continue to provide the necessary oversight and work with NIPRD, partners and stakeholders at the various levels to ensure that the desired results of sustainable vaccine R&D and local production in Nigeria are achieved”.  

    The minister who was represented by Dr. David Atuwo emphasized Government’s level of preparation to kick-start local vaccine manufacturing, saying, “Despite the various challenges militating against local production of vaccines, I want to state that appreciable progress has been achieved in these past few years.

    “Nigeria has recently attained Maturity Level Three (ML3) for regulatory oversight and this includes the area of vaccines.

    “With this and other ongoing reforms in the health sector, vaccines produced as a result of this process will not only satisfy national needs, but will also be available for international procurement.

    “Whilst the government is taking steps to provide the needed infrastructure requisite for the implementation of local vaccines’ production, it is commendable that NIPRD, in line with its mandate, continues to set the pace for responsive innovation in this area.”

    On the importance of the review and validation meeting, the Minister noted that “This high-level meeting is intended to bring together relevant stakeholders in order to synthesize ideas and solutions for a robust and contextual base plan to achieve sustainable local manufacturing of vaccines in Nigeria.

    “This approach will provide a strong foundation that is underpinned by empirical evidence. The adoption of this bottom-up strategy in developing this plan ensures that innovative ideas embedded in this framework are designed to stimulate local vaccines R&D and vaccines production in Nigeria.”

    In his remarks, NIPRD Director General (DG), Obi Adigwe, said the meeting was the first step to unlock the health value chain plan which will not only save lives but also address critical socio-economic indices such as job creation, capacity building, revenue generation and technology transfer.

    He said: “Africa no longer has an interest in tokenistic interventions such as fill-finish products, but has become interested in building dependable, equitable, and veracious partnerships that will enable the Continent to undertake full R&D for the production of vaccines.”

  • HPV Vaccine: Nigeria on path to cervical cancer elimination

    HPV Vaccine: Nigeria on path to cervical cancer elimination

    • By Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu

    Cervical Cancer is a global public health concern, and Nigeria is no exception to its devastating impact. Cervical Cancer is the 2nd most common form of cancer among women in Nigeria, with an estimated 12,065 new cases and 7,968 death each year. Most of these cases are preventable through vaccination against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), the virus that causes cervical cancer. With such a high burden of cervical cancer cases, Nigeria has taken significant steps towards providing HPV vaccine for Nigerian girls aged 9 – 14 with support from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and UNICEF.

    A complex cocktail of factors accounts for the high burden of cervical cancer in Nigeria. Poor access to prevention (vaccination and screening) and treatment services through the primary health care system is much talked about, however, poverty and a lack of education (awareness) are also critical risk factors that must be addressed to successfully reach every girl.

    To provide universal access to HPV vaccines for adolescent girls in the country, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) is coordinating the national introduction of HPV vaccine into the routine immunization schedule from November 2023. The launch will commence in 16 states targeting girls between the ages of 9 – 14 through in-school and outreach vaccination models.

    Many Nigerians are not aware of the link between HPV and cervical cancer, or are hesitant to vaccinate their daughters against the virus. NPHCDA working in partnership with State Primary Health Cared Development agencies (SPHCDA) is doing a commendable job in creating the required landscape for improved acceptance and adoption of HPV vaccines in communities across the country. As a long-term campaigner for universal access to HPV vaccine and the chairperson of First Ladies Against Cancer (FLAC) Initiative, I am fully aware of the work that has gone into building a national coalition of cancer advocates and civil society groups who will work at sub-national and community levels to create the necessary engagement that will sustain demand for HPV vaccination.

    Adolescent girls aged 9 – 14 are not a monolith in Nigeria, there are regional differences that must be addressed, to successfully reach this target group depending on which side of the rivers Niger and Benue you find yourself implementing. According to the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), over 50% of Nigerian girls are not attending school at the basic education level. As of 2023, there are approximately 7.6 million girls out of school in Nigeria, with 3.9 million at the primary level and 3.7 million at the junior secondary level, a spread that include adolescent girls aged 9 – 14. This reality highlights the need for SPHCDAs to have a cohesive implementation strategy that is centered around healthcare workers, teachers, traditional and religious leaders, and community-based civil society groups to ensure we reach every adolescent girl with the HPV vaccine.

    Healthcare workers that work in and outside of health facilities that serve communities across the country e.g., community health extension workers are critical to rapidly accelerating access to HPV vaccine towards the 2030 cervical cancer elimination goal as seen in countries like Rwanda and Malawi. This responsibility commences even before vaccines arrive at service delivery points (health facilities, schools, markets, etc) as vaccines  do not hold their potency for long out of their required cold chain conditions. The added challenge in managing delivery to rural areas while maintaining vaccine integrity is insecurity and poor infrastructure such as electricity and easily accessible roads. This demands a well-defined HPV vaccine delivery strategy in security compromised and hard-to-reach settlements such as the Reach Every Settlement (RES) model of the national polio programme.

    The design of the primary healthcare system in Nigeria will see healthcare workers educating the public about the HPV vaccine and cervical cancer, administering the vaccine, and monitoring the vaccine’s safety and effectiveness. The ongoing state level capacity building of healthcare workers across these three fronts is commendable, however, this cannot be a one-time intervention to sustain quality and track performance.  To address the inherent challenge with public sector healthcare worker numbers and distribution across Nigeria, state ministries of health will need to implement a model that incorporates duly registered private-for-profit healthcare providers to meet coverage targets.

    Educators will also play a crucial role as we institute access to HPV vaccination through the school-based vaccination model. Teachers serve as a key medium for imparting health knowledge to students, helping students understand the importance of HPV vaccination and how it works, they are the bridge to communicating with parents and caregivers to secure consent for an effective programme. Outside of the schools, the SPHCDA will need to implement an effective and ongoing advocacy programme to engage religious and traditional leaders to reach adolescent girls outside of the formal education system, this is especially important in the northern half of Nigeria. State Universal Basic Education Boards (SUBEB), Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), and the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) are primary stakeholders in achieving universal HPV vaccine acceptance and adoption across Nigeria.

    Medicaid Cancer Foundation’s experience in piloting school-based HPV vaccination in Yauri, Kebbi State in 2020 is evidence that cancer non-profits and civil society groups are vital to creating awareness, demand generation, and reaching adolescent girls within and without the walls of schools. HPV vaccines acceptance levels recorded during the pilot is directly linked to an approach that included public-health-sector and community gatekeepers from project design through to implementation.

    Globally, just one in eight girls are vaccinated against HPV. Supply chain issues that were exacerbated by the Covid-19 remain an ongoing challenge. Though the number of WHO pre-qualified HPV vaccines have increased from two to five since 2017, demand for the HPV vaccine outstrips supply and the price in the open market is out of reach for many countries in Sub-Saharan  Africa. The Federal Ministry of Health must prioritize  facilitation of local  manufacture of HPV vaccine to address these challenges and meet medium to long term needs outside of Gavi’s commitment to support the vaccination of 13.6 million girls by 2025. Drawing from the lessons of the Covid-19 pandemic, building local vaccine manufacturing capacity should be a health security priority for Nigeria, it will consequently improve the access and uptake of HPV vaccine in the SSA region.

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    The successful introduction of the HPV vaccine in Nigeria will depend on the commitment and dedication of policymakers at national and subnational levels ability to   build the required coalition of stakeholders as described above. Prioritizing the availability/dissemination of accurate information and raising awareness about the vaccine, providing the required resources for healthcare workers to reach communities of all types across the country, as well as transparent and accountable implementation processes will see Nigeria accelerate its progress towards achieving 90% of Nigerian girls being fully vaccinated with the HPV vaccine by 15 years of age by 2030.

    ●Dr. Shinkafi-Bagudu,former First Lady of Kebbi State, a Consultant Pediatrician and a global health advocate , with a particular focus on cancer.