The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that every child in Nigeria receives life-saving vaccines, declaring immunisation a non-negotiable right of every child.
Speaking in an interview on Sunday in Abuja, the Executive Director of NPHCDA, Dr Muyi Aina, underscored that vaccines remain among the safest, most effective, and most cost-efficient tools for preventing deadly childhood diseases.
“Vaccination is not just a health intervention, it is every child’s right. No child should suffer or die from preventable diseases. Vaccines are free, safe, and effective,” Aina stated.
He urged all parents and caregivers to take their children to the nearest health facility to ensure full immunisation coverage.
Aina disclosed that the agency, in collaboration with development partners and state governments, is intensifying routine immunisation and social mobilisation efforts to reach zero-dose children—those who have never received any vaccines—particularly in hard-to-reach and underserved communities.
“This campaign is about saving lives and building a healthier future,” he said.
“We are asking Nigerians to be vaccine champions. Share the message, encourage your neighbours, and ensure every eligible child is vaccinated.”
The Executive Director further explained that the vaccination awareness campaign includes:
- Bringing children to the nearest health centre for free vaccines
- Countering vaccine hesitancy by sharing accurate information
- Encouraging family and community participation
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Aina emphasised that routine immunisation is critical to combating diseases such as polio, measles, diphtheria, hepatitis B, and tuberculosis, all of which pose serious risks to children.
He also called for collective responsibility across all sectors—including traditional and religious leaders, civil society, and the media—to support the nationwide immunisation drive.
“Vaccinating every child is how we build immunity and protect even the most vulnerable among us. It is a duty we owe our children—to give them a strong, healthy start in life,” Aina said.
With the Nigerian government’s Renewed Hope Agenda prioritising strengthened primary healthcare, Aina reaffirmed the NPHCDA’s resolve to reach every child, everywhere, every time.
He concluded with a heartfelt message to families across the nation:
“To every parent and caregiver who opens their doors and hearts to vaccinators, thank you. By allowing your children to receive the polio and other lifesaving vaccines, you’re not just protecting your own family—you are helping to build a healthier, safer Nigeria for all. Your trust and cooperation make disease prevention possible. We see you. We appreciate you. We stand with you.”
NAN