UNICEF report: Over 100 Areas in Nigeria Classified as ‘Zero Dose’ Regions for Child Vaccinations

By Salifu Faridat

A concerning situation has come to light as UNICEF reports that approximately 100 local government areas (LGAs) in Nigeria are classified as “Zero Dose” areas, signifying a high number of children who have never received vaccinations.

The revelation was made recently by the UNICEF Chief of the Kano Field Office, Mr. Rahama Farah, during the launch of the distribution of 198 motorcycles for routine immunization to officers and ward focal persons in Katsina state.

The motorcycles were distributed by the Katsina State Government to enhance the coverage of routine immunization and primary healthcare services across the state.

Speaking at the event, Farah highlighted that Katsina State itself has eight LGAs that fall under the “Zero Dose” category. These LGAs include Batagarawa, Baure, Funtua, Kankara, Katsina, Mani, Rimi, and Safana.

“Zero-dose children remain vulnerable to vaccine-preventable diseases, along with un/under-immunized or ‘missed dose’ children, which refers to those who do not complete their immunization in the National Immunization schedule,” Farah emphasized.

He called upon various stakeholders, including the government, traditional leaders, religious leaders, and community members, to join forces in ensuring that every child in Katsina State receives proper immunization.

Mothers and caregivers were especially urged to ensure that children receive all relevant childhood vaccines as outlined in the country’s routine immunization schedule.

Additionally, Farah stressed the importance of children within the target age groups receiving other vaccines during Supplemental Immunization Activities (SIAs), such as the Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) and Inactivated Polio Vaccine (IPV) for children under five years.

He also urged that girls between nine and 14 years receive the HPV vaccine and other relevant vaccines based on the epidemiology of diseases.

To combat this concerning situation, UNICEF called upon the Katsina State government to take concrete action in strengthening the Primary Healthcare System.

One suggested measure was implementing the Primary Health Care Under One Roof Policy, which aims to establish functional primary healthcare centers in every ward.

Farah also stressed the need for strategic interventions to address gaps in human resources, advocating for an increase in the number, quality, and distribution of critical health workers.

Furthermore, he urged the government to increase vaccinators and Community Health Influencers and Promoters Services (CHIPS) agents for immunization campaigns.

UNICEF assured its commitment as a trusted partner and pledged to continue supporting the children, people, and government of Katsina State in combating this pressing health challenge.