By Umar Faruk Birnin Kebbl
Kebbi State has officially launched the rollout of malaria vaccination for children aged five to 11 months, marking a significant milestone in the fight against malaria. The Deputy Governor, senator Umar Abubakar-Tafida, flagged off the exercise on Monday in Birnin Kebbi, emphasizing the state government's commitment to protecting the health and well-being of its citizens.
Abubakar-Tafida noted that malaria has been a significant challenge in the state, claiming countless lives and affecting the health of communities. He described the introduction of the malaria vaccine as a "monumental step" in the battle against the disease. The vaccine is part of the state's routine immunization program and is expected to significantly reduce the burden of malaria in Kebbi.
The Commissioner for Health, Alhaji Yunusa Ismail, highlighted that the malaria vaccine was introduced after series of discussions with stakeholders, including governors, on ways to tackle the menace. He noted that the vaccination exercise has commenced in December and will continue until February 2025.
The Kebbi State government has urged the general public to take advantage of the lifesaving intervention, emphasizing that the vaccine is safe, effective, and free. The government has also appreciated the efforts of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, World Health Organization (WHO), and UNICEF in supporting the rollout of the malaria vaccine.
In his remarks, the Focal Person of the Gwandu Emirate, Alhaji Abubakar Muhammad, assured that the emirate would sustain its support for the success of the vaccine rollout in the state. Representatives of NPHCDA, WHO, and UNICEF also renewed their commitment to ensuring the eradication of malaria and other communicable diseases in the state.
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