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Fred Ezeh, Abuja
The Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunisation (GAVI) has approved the Nigeria Strategy for Routine Immunisation and Primary Health Care Systems’ Strengthening (NSIPSS), which is a proposal that would respond to GAVI transition in few years.
The Board also approved additional $3 billion dollars to enable Nigeria provide routine vaccination for its children over the next 10 years.
GAVI is expected to make financial commitment of $1.03 billion, while Nigerian Government counterpart contribution is in excess of $1.9 billion.
Minister of health, Prof. Isaac Adewole, told journalists at a press conference in Abuja, on Monday, that the approval of the funding envelope and the extension of transitional period from 2021 to 2028 was in appreciation of success made thus in Nigeria.
In 2001, Nigerian Government and GAVI agreed to strengthen immunisation system. To this end, GAVI supported Nigeria with different life saving vaccines and additional support for non-vaccine operations.
The Executive Director, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr. Faisal Shuaib, was optimistic that the intervention will herald the realization of the aspirations of Nigeria as regards immunization.
The Country Director, International Vaccine Access Center (IVAC), Dr. Chizoba Wonodi, said the strategic plan was designed to improve on immunization outreach, from 33 to 80 percent in 10 years.
She urged Nigerian government to meet its own responsibilities, particularly the consistent funding for immunization and primary healthcare services, so they could collectively achieve success
