The Federal Government of Nigeria has received its first batch of 846,000 doses of the R21 malaria vaccine from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. The official launch of the vaccines took place on Thursday, attended by officials from the Ministry of Health, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), and various development partners.
Minister of Health Ali Pate described the arrival of the vaccines as a significant milestone in the government's ongoing efforts to combat malaria in the country. He announced that the initial distribution would focus on states with the highest malaria burden, particularly Kebbi and Bayelsa, and emphasized that the vaccine would complement existing malaria treatments.
Addressing concerns regarding the vaccine's efficacy, Pate assured the public that it has been proven safe and effective for malaria prevention and treatment.
Muyi Aina, Director General of the NPHCDA, outlined the distribution plans and mentioned that an enforcement team would be established to oversee the process. He noted that further details regarding the administration of the vaccines would be communicated in due course.
In addition, Aina mentioned that approximately 140,000 more doses are expected in the coming months, with a goal of making one million vaccines available in this initial batch. The R21 malaria vaccine, which will be administered in two doses per vial, was produced by the Serum Institute of India, marking a significant step in Nigeria's fight against malaria.