Gov. Idris Applauds Federal Government For Launching Anti-malaria Vaccine For Children Aged 5-11

Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Dr. Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, has expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for introducing the anti-malaria vaccination program and flagging off the initiative in Kebbi State.

The governor emphasized that the program would significantly reduce infant mortality and improve the overall health of children in the state.

Governor Idris, represented by his Deputy, Senator Umar Abubakar Tafida, made the statement on Monday during the inaugural rollout of the malaria vaccination in Birnin Kebbi. The exercise included the administration of the vaccine to children aged 5 to 11.

Speaking during the event, Senator 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 the disease.

“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. The vaccine is free, safe, and effective,” Tafida said.

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

“The fight against malaria is a collective responsibility. Kebbi State will continue to collaborate with development partners to prevent and control malaria and other communicable diseases.

This is only the beginning, as the fight against malaria is far from over,” he added.

Dr. Kamal Musa, representing the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), noted that Kebbi and Bayelsa states were chosen for the inaugural vaccination program due to their high malaria prevalence.

“The Federal Government will ensure that vaccines are readily available in all hospitals. Parents, especially mothers, should take their children aged 5 to 11 to the nearest healthcare facility for vaccination,” Dr. Musa urged.

He emphasized that the vaccine is part of a broader strategy to combat malaria, complementing measures such as the use of treated mosquito nets.

Dr. Nasiru Zurmi of the World Health Organisation (WHO) highlighted the high mortality rate caused by malaria in Nigeria, stating that the vaccine would have the greatest impact in African countries like Nigeria.

“This initiative marks a major milestone in the fight against malaria in our country,” Dr. Zurmi stated.

UNICEF representative, Mr. Isa Ibrahim, explained that the anti-malaria vaccine is the first of its kind introduced in Nigeria.

“Malaria affects 34% of Nigeria’s population, with 200,000 deaths recorded annually. In Kebbi State, 49% of children under one year suffer from malaria. This vaccine aims to change that narrative,” he said.

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

The event also featured remarks from Kebbi State Commissioner for Health, Comrade Yunusa Isma’ila, and the Executive Secretary of the Kebbi State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Alhaji Abubakar Muhammad.

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.

Credit: Yahaya Sarki
Special Adviser (SA) to Kebbi State Governor on Media and Publicity.