From January to June 2023, 189,310 children in the South-West of the nation did not receive their regular immunizations, according to the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NHPCDA). The Federal Government-owned agency also stated that immunization, particularly eradicating all types of diseases that are preventable by vaccination, remained its top goal.
The statement took place during the opening of the South-West Traditional Leaders’ Committee on Primary Health Care Delivery’s first quarter 2023 review meeting. The meeting took place in Akure, the capital of Ondo State.
Dr. Faisal Shuaib is the Executive Director and Chief Executive Officer of the NPHCDA. He stated:
“From January to June 2023, a total of 189,310 children in the Southwest zone lacked access to, or were never reached by any routine immunization. These children are referred to as zero-dose children.
“Notably, Lagos has the highest count, with 79,279 zero dose children, followed by Oyo State with 53,812 children, Ondo with 30,280 children, Osun with 19,737 children, Ogun with 3,204 children, and finally Ekiti with 2,998 children, who have never received any form of vaccination effort.
“I advocate for immunisation and other primary healthcare (PHC) services. By utilising your influential and revered position in society to emphasise the significance of regular immunisation and other PHC services to parents and caregivers, we can overcome obstacles and enhance the acceptance of vaccines, ensuring that every child receives these life-saving treatments. By taking this action, we can stop the spread of cVPV2 (Circulating Variant Polio Virus Type 2), and achieve a comprehensive enhancement in the health and welfare of our communities.”
Mr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, the acting governor of Ondo State, said in his remarks:
“Our administration has continued to prioritise health care service delivery in the state as part of our redeemed policy thrust. All levels of our health system have continued to receive the necessary support to ensure that our people receive the kind of healthcare they desire without being subjected to unbearable expenditures.”
cc: Punch Ng
