The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), in collaboration with Gavi, has announced plans to vaccinate at least 300,000 children over the next four years in Kebbi State to protect them against deadly diseases
UNICEF’s Health Manager in Nigeria, Humuyin Kabir, disclosed this during a courtesy visit to the Emir of Argungu, Samaila Mera, in Argungu Local Government Area of Kebbi State.
Kabir emphasized the need for traditional leaders to support routine and periodic immunization campaigns, particularly against high-risk diseases such as diphtheria, malaria, tetanus, measles, cholera, and cervical cancer.
“We are here to seek the cooperation of the Emir and his community to ensure routine uptake of these vaccines,” he said. “The vaccines are available and free — communities must take full advantage of this.”
He stressed that traditional rulers are key advocates in ensuring vaccine acceptance through sustained community engagement and enlightenment.
Also speaking, the Head of the Gavi Delegation, Jesica Crawford, highlighted Gavi’s role in supporting malaria vaccination in Nigeria.
“Our goal in coming to Kebbi and Nigeria is to push for massive malaria vaccination coverage, ensuring no child is left behind. We’re here to strengthen our collaboration with the Kebbi State government, especially the State Primary Healthcare Agency,” she stated.
WHO Donates 11 Motorcycles
In a related development, the World Health Organization (WHO), through its Kebbi State Coordinator, Nasir Zurmi, donated 11 motorcycles to the Kebbi State Primary Healthcare Agency. The donation is intended to aid vaccinators in reaching remote and hard-to-access communities.
“Some villages are not motorable, so these motorcycles will help vaccinators reach those areas,” Zurmi said.
In his response, the Emir of Argungu expressed concern over the declining acceptance of the malaria vaccine among community members.
“People are asking why polio vaccines were widely accepted but malaria vaccines are not. The vaccines are available, yet people are reluctant. Parents should make every effort to get their children vaccinated,” he said.
He attributed the decline to poor public awareness and called for continuous enlightenment campaigns beyond short-term programs.
“We welcome you to Kebbi and, as always, offer our full support,” the Emir added.
The visiting team also toured primary healthcare facilities in Takalau (Birnin Kebbi) and Argungu to assess ongoing vaccination efforts.
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