From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), on Friday, took delivery of 1,580,000 doses of lifesaving Pentavalent vaccines to support routine immunization programme in Nigeria.
Executive Director, NPHCDA, Dr. Faisal Shuaib, who received the consignment on behalf of the Federal Government, appreciated the partnership that had existed between Nigeria and Indonesia, which has yielded and supported several positive results including the fight against wide poliovirus.
He said: “These donated vaccines are a testament to the power of collective action, compassion, and international cooperation. It reaffirms our shared commitment to protect the health and well-being of our children. So, together, we would rise above the challenges we face and forge a path towards a healthier, more resilient future.
“The donation is a mark of the interest of the Indonesian government and people in the wellbeing of Nigerians and their commitment to global health.”
He maintained that vaccines are one of the most effective ways to prevent infectious diseases and improve the health of the people and communities, hence Pentavalent vaccine is a critical tool for protecting children against five major childhood diseases, namely, Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis, Hepatitis B, and Haemophilus influenzae Type B.
He added: “This donation is significant, considering the singular importance of immunization as perhaps the most cost effective weapon in the fight against diseases, especially those of early childhood years.
“These vaccines we have received are more than just vials of medicine; they represent hope, protection, and the promise of a brighter future for our children. They hold within them the power to save lives. With this donation, we are equipped with a powerful tool to strengthen our vaccination program.”
He stressed the need to maximize the impact of the donated vaccines by ensuring equitable distribution and accessibility to all segments of the society, promising to prioritize vulnerable populations, marginalized communities, and remote areas where healthcare access may be limited.
“By doing so, we can confidently bridge the gaps and ensure that every child has an equal opportunity to receive the protection these vaccines offer,” he said.
He reassured the donors that the vaccines would be distributed to healthcare centres throughout Nigeria to ensure that they reach as many children as possible, particularly those in remote and underserved communities, where they would be instrumental in preventing countless cases of life-threatening diseases among the most vulnerable members of our society.
“In doing that, we would be guided by three fundamental principles: accessibility, equity, and efficiency. We firmly believe that every child, regardless of their background or geographic location, should have equitable access to these life-saving vaccines. We will leave no child behind.
“We would emphasize the importance of vaccine education and dispel any misconceptions or hesitancy surrounding immunization. Through transparent communication and community engagement, we aim to build trust and confidence in the safety and efficacy of these vaccines.”
Indonesian Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Usra Hendra Harahap, in his remarks, said the donation was part of effort of the Indonesian government to support routine immunization drive in Nigeria.
He appreciated the efforts of Nigerian government in strengthening the basic health care system, which has culminated in improved quality life for Nigerian children.
He promised continued support for Nigeria in any other area that would help to improve its health care system, particularly basic health care system.