By Muhammad Amaan
The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) in collaboration with the Kebbi State Ministry of Health, has inaugurated the rollout of malaria vaccination for children from five to 11 months in the state.
The Deputy Governor of the state, Umar Abubakar Tafida, flagged off the vaccine immunisation exercise in Birnin Kebbi on Monday, a programme also being launched simultaneously in Bayelsa State.
Flagging the exercise, Deputy Governor Tafida lamented that malaria had been a significant challenge, “claiming countless lives and impacting the health and well-being of our communities.
“Today, we take a monumental step in our ongoing battle against this deadly disease. The introduction of the malaria vaccine stands as a symbol of hope and a clear demonstration of our unwavering dedication to protecting the health of our citizens.
“Kebbi State has long remained committed to improving the health and well-being of its people,” he said.
The deputy governor added that their present administration’s focus has always been on ensuring accessible healthcare, advancing medical interventions, and addressing the pressing health challenges that affect the communities.
“The introduction of the malaria vaccine into our routine immunisation programme is a clear indication of this commitment.
“We recognise that the health of our people is foremost to the growth and prosperity of our state. This initiative is part of our broader vision to reduce preventable diseases, particularly malaria, and to create a healthier, more resilient population,” he said.
Tafida, also added that the introduction of the malaria vaccine was a game-changer in their fight against this disease.
“When combined with existing malaria control measures such as Seasonal Malaria Chemotherapy (SMC) and the distribution of treated mosquito nets, we are confident that we can significantly reduce the burden of malaria in Kebbi.
“With the launch of this vaccine intervention, we are optimistic that we can create a healthier, more prosperous future for our people,” he said.
He urged the general public to take advantage of the lifesaving intervention, saying” the vaccine is safe, effective, and free.”
He stressed the need for all stakeholders to work together to ensure that children, families, and communities were protected from the scourge of malaria.
The deputy governor thanked the NPHCDA, WHO and other international partners for their technical and financial support towards the initiative, “and for their tireless efforts in leading the charge against malaria in Nigeria.”
The vaccination exercise which commenced on December 2, will continue till February, 2025.
In their separate remarks, the representatives of National Primary Heath Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr Jamal Musa, World Health Organisation (WHO), Dr Nasir Zurmi, and the UNICEF, Alhaji Isa Ibrahim renewed their commitment to ensuring the eradication of child killer diseases, especially malaria.
They also urged parents and caregivers to leverage the vaccine rollout for the promotion of the children health in the state.
