Nigeria has launched the second phase of its COVID-19 vaccination campaign, marking a significant milestone in the country’s efforts to curb the spread of the disease. The Federal Government launched the program in Abuja on August 16, 2021.
Key Highlights
1. Arrival of Moderna and Janssen (Johnson & Johnson) vaccines to enhance vaccination efforts.
2. Over 4 million doses of Moderna vaccine donated by the US government through COVAX facility.
3. 117,600 doses of Johnson & Johnson vaccine received through the African Union and Afrexim Bank.
4. Additional 42.5 million doses expected from COVAX, African Union, and international donations.
Government Commitment
Chairman of the Presidential Steering Committee, Boss Mustapha, emphasized:
1. Achieving herd immunity is a collective responsibility.
2. Vaccines are safe and efficacious.
3. Government will ensure vaccine availability.
WHO Support
WHO Country Representative, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, commended:
1. Federal Government’s investment in Ultra Cold Chain equipment.
2. Effective logistics preparation for vaccine storage.
National Strategy
The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) will adopt a family-centered integrated Primary Health Care approach, ensuring:
1. Equitable distribution of vaccines.
2. Demand generation.
3. Judicious utilization of vaccines.
Stakeholder Engagement
Dignitaries present included:
1. Minister of Health, Osagie Ehanire.
2. Executive Director of NPHCDA.
3. Directors General of NAFDAC and NCDC.
4. Leadership and members of the National Assembly.
5. Representatives from US CDC, Rotary International, and African Export-Import Bank.
Vaccination Progress
In the first phase:
1. 3.92 million doses of AstraZeneca vaccine were received.
2. 98.9% of doses were utilized.
3. Over 2.5 million persons received the first dose.
4. Over 1.4 million persons received the second dose. Nigeria’s continued efforts to combat COVID-19 demonstrate its commitment to protecting its citizens and achieving herd immunity
