In a bold move to fight deadly diseases among children, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), in partnership with Gavi, has launched a four-year vaccination campaign in Kebbi State. The initiative aims to immunize over 300,000 children against life-threatening illnesses such as malaria, diphtheria, tetanus, measles, cholera, and cervical cancer.
Speaking during a courtesy visit to the Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Muhammad Mera, UNICEF Nigeria’s Country Representative, Dr. Sheik Humuyin Kabir, stressed the importance of traditional leaders in promoting vaccination. “These vaccines are available and free. We need the support of our community leaders to encourage parents to protect their children,” he said.
Kabir emphasized that community engagement is vital for improving vaccine uptake, especially in remote areas.
Also present was Dr. Jesica Crawford, head of the Gavi team, who reaffirmed Gavi’s commitment to expanding malaria vaccination across Nigeria. “No child should be left behind. Our visit here is to strengthen collaboration with Kebbi State authorities and support the work of the Primary Healthcare Agency,” she said.
In support of the campaign, the World Health Organization (WHO), through its Kebbi State Coordinator, Dr. Nasir Zurmi, donated 11 motorcycles to help vaccinators access hard-to-reach communities. “Some areas are not accessible by regular vehicles, so these motorcycles will ensure vaccines get to every child,” he added.
The Emir of Argungu, while pledging full support, expressed concern over the low acceptance of the malaria vaccine. He urged parents to prioritize their children’s health and called for continuous public awareness campaigns to improve trust in vaccination efforts.
The delegation also visited healthcare centers in Takalau (Birnin Kebbi) and Argungu, where they monitored vaccination progress and engaged local health workers.
This joint effort marks a major step forward in protecting children’s health in northern Nigeria and underscores the need for sustained community involvement in achieving universal immunization coverage.
