The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has raised the alarm over a looming threat to Nigeria’s immunisation efforts, revealing that the country needs $1 billion over five years to sustain its progress in vaccination coverage.
Speaking during a multi-stakeholder workshop in Abuja on Wednesday, the agency’s Executive Director, Dr. Muyi Aina, highlighted the critical funding gap threatening the nation’s health future.
“Only 21% of the allocated vaccine funds for 2024 have been released,” he stated. “We risk undoing years of progress if urgent financing is not secured.”
Despite challenges, Aina noted significant milestones in 2024:
Three million previously unvaccinated children were reached.
14 million girls received the cervical cancer vaccine.
91 million vaccine doses were administered nationwide.
Over 10,000 cold chain units are currently operational.
However, Dr. Aina emphasized that immunisation is a shared responsibility across all levels of government and should not be left to the Federal Government alone.
The meeting brought together stakeholders across health and finance sectors to develop sustainable solutions as Nigeria transitions away from Gavi (the global vaccine alliance) support.
“We’re exploring innovative financing options, including taxes and alternative revenue sources, to fill the gap,” he explained.
Experts at the event stressed that domestic funding, strong accountability, and community involvement are crucial to maintaining vaccination coverage and protecting Nigeria’s future health outcomes.
Without adequate and timely funding, even the most effective vaccines may not reach the vulnerable populations who need them most.
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