By Time Nigeria
Recently, Global Immunization Experts from Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation and University of Minnesota, Centre for Infectious Disease Research and Policy, Dr Orin Levine and Dr Mike Osterholm respectively commended Nigeria government for what they described as courageous transparency in a latest world annual report of data on routine immunization and polio eradication initiative.
Quoting from WHO/UNICEF joint annual report (WUENIC) featuring over 194 countries, the two professors, in a publication, for the first time described as positive, better and accurate data received on immunization coverage at the sub-national levels for 125 out of 194 countries of the world.
In a statement signed by the Head, Public Relations Unit, PRU of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, NPHCDA, Malam Saadu Salahu said, “Nigeria, according to the publication, was singled out for commendation, for reporting the most accurate estimates of her immunization coverage.”
It added, “Although the publication decried the security and administrative challenges confronting Nigeria especially in reaching every child for vaccination against vaccine-preventable diseases, the professor sack now ledged the courage and commitment demonstrated by the current Nigerian leadership, stressing that this was all required to map out gaps in coverage and responded appropriately.
“They therefore called on other countries of the world to emulate Nigeria’s good example in transparency, accuracy and due process in her new programme’s data reportage on routine immunization, emphasizing it was the best strategy to improve the protection of their communities against vaccine preventable diseases.”
According to the statement, “The publication also acknowledged tremendous progress the world had made at ensuring that no child was left un-reached by lifesaving vaccines. Their report described childhood immunization as one of the best investments any country can make, stressing that every one dollar invested on immunization resulted in 44 dollars in terms of social and economic benefits.”
It will be recalled that a-3-man high-power delegation of the Global Alliance for Vaccine and Immunization (Gavi) led by its Managing Director in Geneva, MS Hind Othman, last week in Abuja announced that Gavi would continue its support to Nigeria routine immunization and
other vaccine preventable diseases. This, Gavi MD emphasized was because of the Nigerian’s commitment to transparency, accountability and good governance. It said.
“The Minister of Health, Professor Isaac Adewole has been in the forefront of the current administration’s clarion call on all Nigerians to support the Buhari administration for a successful implementation of the PHC revitalization agenda and Strengthening of Routine Immunization.
“Reacting to the commendation on transparent and accurate data, the Executive Director and Chief Executive, National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Faisal Shuaib noted with delight that transparency, accountability, strict adherence to due process, including on data generation and reportage were all parts of positive outcome arising from the change agenda of the Buhari’s administration.” The statement concludes.