By Haruna Gimba
The Federal Government says that it has released N10 billion to support domestic production of COVID-19 vaccine.
The Minister of Health, Dr Osagie Ehanire who stated this on Monday at the briefing of the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19, said the Federal Ministry of Finance has already released the sum of N10 billion to support the domestic production of the vaccine.
He said that while they are working to develop local vaccines, Nigeria is exploring options for licensed production in collaboration with recognized institutions, “we are also exploring the option of local production of the vaccines in the country.”
The minister debunked reports of claims by some persons in Nigeria, to have COVID-19 vaccines for sale in the country.
Dr Ehanire advised all citizens to disregard the claims which he described as criminal, saying there are procedures for vaccine acquisition and use which include appropriate regulation and certification by NAFDAC.
“I advise against fake vaccines, as there is no vaccine approved for use in the country and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) is the only authorized vaccine administrator in Nigeria,” he said.
Ehanire further stated that, while the prospect of a vaccine arriving soon is cheering, the importance of non-pharmaceutical measures remains critical to prevent infections.
“Wear your face masks, wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitizers, avoid close contacts and crowded places and if you have symptoms like cough, difficulty in breathing, sudden loss of taste and smell and fever please get tested,” he added.
