Gov Idris Commends FG For Launching Malaria Vaccine For Children In Kebbi

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

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

A statement made available to  Team@orientactualmags.com noted that Governor Idris, who was represented by his Deputy,  Alhaji Umar Abubakar Tafida, said this on Monday during the inaugural rollout of the malaria vaccination in Birnin Kebbi.

 The exercise featured the administration of the vaccine to children between the ages of 5 and 11.

Speaking during the event, Alhaji 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 also reaffirmed  Kebbi State Government’s commitment to ensuring the success of the programme and making healthcare delivery accessible to all communities, including those in the 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,  who represented the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), noted that Kebbi and Bayelsa states were chosen for the inaugural vaccination programme 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 between the  ages of 5 and 11 to the nearest healthcare facility for vaccination’ Dr. Musa said.

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 said .

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 programme and assured active involvement of traditional rulers 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 which was administered by the Deputy Governor during the event-Team@orientactualmags.com  Do you have any information you wish to share with us? Do you want us to cover your event or programme? Kindly send SMS to 08059100286, 09094171980 or get in touch via orientactualmag@gmail.com.  Thank you