UNUCEF declares 8 Borno LGAs for zero-dose immunisation
By Njadvara Musa, Maiduguri
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has declared eight Borno Local Government Areas (LGAs) for zero-dose immunization against childhood diseases.
According to the Fund, the diseases comprise polio, measles, tetanus, and other life-threatening infections.
Unveiling the zero-dose, yesterday (Thursday) in Maiduguri to mark World Polio Day, the UNICEF Chief of Maiduguri Field Office, Dr. Gerida Birukila disclosed: “Borno recorded 28.5 percent of fully vaccinated children with basic antigens, along with 21.2% of the children reported to have no vaccination (NDHS 2023).”
Reiterating the importance of routine immunization to the wellbeing of children, she said: “We’ve collaborated with Nigerian and international superstars to produce a song underscoring the necessity of immunization.”
Additionally, she said the immunizations are for newborns, and under-five children against polio, measles, and other life-threatening diseases.
The Field Office boss continued: “This song titled: “No More Zero-Dose” features Ali Nuhu, Kate Henshaw and Timi Dakolo.”
Other featured artists to mark World Polio Day included Waje, Cobhams, Spyro, Omawumi, Qing Madi, and Master Soumy.
Each of the artists highlighted the need to protect the children in securing their future.
She noted that the version of the song in Hausa, were voiced by the respected artist, Nuhu.
“We believe the song will boost the vaccination rates in the Northeast region, she said, adding that the song will become a popular anthem.
She defined zero-dose children as the ones that lack access to or are never reached by routine immunization services.
On the key drivers of immunization, Birukila said: “The key drivers are health related issues, including the paucity of skilled health force and availability of vaccines.
“There are also caregiver factors like education and personal perception,” she said, adding that there are cultural and geographical factors including limitation imposed by hard-to-reach areas caused by insecurity.
