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•As Gavi unveils $500m vaccine lifeline for Nigeria
From Juliana Taiwo-Obalonye, Abuja
President Bola Tinubu on Friday, publicly declared his intention to seek a second term in office, telling the global vaccine alliance, Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, that he hoped it would remain Nigeria’s partner as the country heads into an election year.
Tinubu made the declaration while receiving a delegation led by Gavi Chief Executive Officer, Sania Nishtar, at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, where the organisation announced a commitment of more than $500 million over the next five years to support vaccination programmes in Nigeria.
In a brief but politically significant remark at the end of his address, Tinubu said: “The partnership is cherished, and yes, it’s becoming an election year. I’m going to be seeking a return, so I hope you continue to be our partner.”
Tinubu described vaccine development and immunisation as critical investments in Africa’s future and praised Gavi’s commitment to improving global health.
“So I had to adjust myself to definitely be able to see you and give you this assurance and to say thank you very much for the commitment to humanity,” the President said. “The wonderful job of Gavi and the team is well appreciated, and the programme of acceleration for the production of the vaccines in Nigeria is empowering the continent.”
The President also commended Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, for driving reforms in the health sector.
Earlier, Nishtar announced that despite declining global development assistance, Gavi would maintain its support for Nigeria, committing more than $500 million over the next five years for vaccination programmes.
