The Governor of Kebbi State, Nasir Idris has described the introduction of malaria vaccine to Nigeria as a symbol of hope. This is even as he stated that it is a clear demonstration of Government’s commitment to eradicating the disease in the country.
Idris made this remark during the launching of the vaccine simultaneously in Kebbi and Bayelsa States on Monday. The vaccine is being introduced to Nigeria by the National Health Care Development Agency (NHCDA) with the support of Development Partners.
The Governor who was represented by his Deputy, Alhaji Umar Abubakar Tafida, noted that for many years, malaria has been a significant challenge. He pointed out that scourge claimed countless lives and impacted the health and well-being of the communities.
He said, “Today, we take a monumental step in our ongoing battle against this deadly disease. The introduction of the malaria vaccine stands as a symbol of hope. And a clear demonstration of our unwavering dedication to protecting the health of our citizens.”
Idris stated that his administration’s focus has always been on ensuring accessible healthcare. Advancing medical interventions, and addressing the pressing health challenges that affect the communities.
He pointed out that the introduction of the malaria vaccine into our routine immunization programme is a clear indication of this commitment.
“We recognize that the health of our people is foremost to the growth and prosperity of our State.
“When combined with existing malaria control measures such as Seasonal Malaria Chemotherapy (SMC) and the distribution of treated mosquito nets, we are confident that we can significantly reduce the burden of malaria in Kebbi State,” the Governor said.
In his speech, the State Commissioner for Health, Alhaji Yunusa Isma’il praised the introduction of the vaccine. He recalled that a survey had shown that Kebbi and Bayelsa were the worst hit States by malaria. Hence the Flag off simultaneously in the two States.
Ismail, therefore, sought the cooperation of parents to present their children for the vaccination exercise. He also urged religious and community leaders to create awareness among their people.
The Commissioner also appreciated development partners for their support. He called for their encouragement to ensure sound and healthy children in the State.
A representative of the National Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Kamal Musa, urged parents to present their children from five to 11 months for the vaccination. He assured that the vaccine was readily available at Primary Healthcare Centres across the State.
Musa noted that the vaccine would be administered in four phases at an interval of one month each.
On his part, the Emir of Gwandu, Alhaji Muhammad Iliyasu-Bashar praised the introduction of the vaccine. According to him, whenever you talk about the healthcare of people, traditional rulers must be involved in view of their critical role.
He said, “As leaders of the people, we appreciate and welcome the invention of the vaccine. And we are 100 ready to support the vaccination exercise for the benefit of our children.”
Represented by Alhaji Abubakar Muhammad, the Emir explained that malaria was a known disease in the African continent.
The Emir, therefore, advocated for an aggressive campaign to ensure the acceptability of the new vaccine in the State.
source: Daily Trust
Follow us for more news on our WhatsApp News Channels @
https://whatsapp.com/channel/0029VaC505jB4hdZ5Yx9g82U