FG launches anti-malaria vaccine for Children Aged 5-11 month in Kebbi

The Kebbi State Governor, Doctor Nasir Idris has expressed happiness to the Federal Government for introducing the anti-malaria vaccination program Free to the children within Ages of 5-11 month.

Governor Nasir Idris Stated this at flagging off the initiative in Birnin kebbi emphasized that the program would significantly reduce infant mortality and improve the overall health of children in the state.

Governor Nasir Idris who was represented by his Deputy, Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida, commended the Federal Government for its proactive strategy in combating malaria, describing the vaccination as a monumental step toward overcoming the devastating effects of Malaria disease.

Sanetor Umar Abubakar Tafida said, “The introduction of this vaccine is a symbol of hope and a clear demonstration of our commitment to protecting the health of our people, especially children and the vaccine is free, safe, and effective.”

Kebbi State Government reaffirmed it’s commitment in ensuring the success of the program’s and making healthcare delivery accessible to all communities, including those in rural areas.

He further stated that the fight against malaria is a collective responsibility and Kebbi State will continue to collaborate with development partners to prevent malaria and other communicable diseases.

Doctor Kamal Musa of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA) Abuja noted that Kebbi and Bayelsa states were chosen for the inaugural vaccination program due to their high malaria prevalence in Nigeria.

Doctor Kamal Musa of  National primary Health care development Agency, Abuja said, Federal Government will ensure that vaccines are readily available in all hospitals and Parents, especially mothers, should take their children within aged 5 to 11 to the nearest healthcare facility for vaccination.

Doctor Kamal Musa emphasized that, “The vaccine is part of a broader strategy to combat malaria, complementing measures such as the use of treated mosquito nets.”

Doctor Nasir Bala Zurmi of the World Health Organisation (WHO) highlighted the high mortality rate of half a million children each year in Africa caused by malaria, stating that the vaccine would have the greatest impact in African countries like Nigeria and  the initiative marks a major milestone in the fight against malaria in our country.

The UNICEF chief of field officer Sokoto, Micheal Juma represented by Mr. Isa Ibrahim, explained that the anti-malaria vaccine is the first of its kind introduced in Nigeria and Malaria affects 31% of Nigeria’s across the globe population, with 200,000 deaths recorded annually while In Kebbi State 49% of children under one year suffer death from malaria and vaccine is aims to change that narrative.

The Emir of Gwandu, Alhaji Muhammadu Iliyasu Bashar, represented by the District Head of Diggi, Alhaji Abubakar Muhammad, welcomed the vaccination Programme and assured traditional rulers’ active involvement in ensuring its success.

A five-month-old toddler, Bashar Umar, made history as the first child in Nigeria to receive the anti-malaria vaccine, administered by the Deputy Governor during the ceremony.