Anambra Partners WHO to Boost Immunization, Primary Healthcare Delivery 

The Anambra State Government has joined forces with the World Health Organization (WHO) to host a one-day retreat focusing on Integrated Primary Healthcare (PHC) Service Delivery.

The event, held in Awka, brought together 21 Local Government Chairpersons, Directors of Health, Supervisors, and key partners to discuss strategies aimed at enhancing healthcare services throughout the state.

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The retreat’s primary objective is to improve routine immunization uptake, increase vaccine acceptance, and empower the 21 Local Government Chairpersons to take ownership of health initiatives within their respective areas.

“We must address the low rate of vaccine acceptance in the state,” stressed the Commissioner, Dr Afam Obidike, during an engagement meeting with the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) and Local Government Area (LGA) Council Members on Integrated Primary Healthcare Service Delivery.

Despite the established benefits of immunization, the Commissioner noted that vaccine acceptance presents a significant challenge in various local government areas within the state.

“The refusal of vaccines, despite available services, is a multifaceted issue influenced by several factors including misinformation, cultural beliefs, distrust in healthcare systems, inadequate awareness campaigns, and fears regarding potential side effects,” he elaborated. “In some instances, religious doctrines and traditional practices exacerbate the low acceptance rates, leaving many communities at risk of preventable diseases.”

To combat this public health challenge, the Commissioner emphasized the necessity for coordinated strategies aimed at educating communities, fostering trust, and improving the delivery of immunization services across the state.

The Commissioner noted that the engagement meeting served not only to develop institutional capacity but also to enhance responsiveness to primary healthcare needs across Anambra’s 179 communities. He called on all participants to intensify awareness campaigns regarding the benefits of immunization in their council areas.

Pharm. Chisom Uchem, Executive Secretary of the State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, expressed gratitude to participants for their continued support in advancing healthcare in the state.

Dr. Chibueze Offorbuike, Chairman of Aguata Local Government and ALGON chair, expressed the commitment of all 21 Local Government Chairpersons to tackle the issues discussed during the retreat.