COVID-19: 46 million Nigerians vaccinated, FG says
The National Economic Council (NEC), chaired by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, says no fewer than 46 million eligible Nigerians have been successfully vaccinated against COVID-19.
Dr Faisal Shuaib, Executive Director, National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHDA) virtually briefed State House correspondents after a virtual NEC meeting anchored from the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Mr Shuaib said he made a presentation to the council on three broad areas—the COVID-19 vaccination update, polio eradication and also routine immunisation.
“In terms of where we are with COVID-19 vaccination, we now have vaccinated successfully, 46 million Nigerians.
“This represents about 42 per cent of the totally eligible Nigerians and it is in keeping with what the Presidential Steering Committee and the Federal Ministry of Health have been tracking in term of our targets.
“We have also recognised an increase in the number of people who are getting vaccinated; a few months ago, the average daily vaccination rate was about 200, 000 people per day but now we are vaccinating over 350, 000 Nigerians per day.
“And this is really commendable; it is worth mentioning as well that the Federal Government has adequate numbers of COVID-19 vaccinations to cover all Nigerians.’’
Mr Shuaib said there is the need for more Nigerians to come out enmasse to take the vaccinations.
On polio eradication, the NPHDA boss said that the last case of the wild polio virus in Nigeria was in August, 2016.
“So, this means that as we celebrate world polio virus day by next week Monday, President Muhammadu Buhari has actually his promise that he will not hand over a Nigeria that has children with these viruses.
“Then, we have seen in the last 24 months, an increase in the reported cases circulating variant polio viruses but thanks to the incredible work of states working with our partners under the leadership of the president.
“We recorded a decrease in the numbers of circulating polio viruses from 806 cases around this time last year; we now have reported 133 cases in 2022 given the same period.
“And then the number of local government areas that are reporting circulating variant polio viruses have also decreased from 186 to just 48 local government areas.
“Again significant improvement in the success rate; thanks to Nigerians coming forth with their children and getting vaccinated.’’
He added that there had been massive improvements in routine immunisation.
According to him, Nigeria is only one of five countries globally where the pandemic did not negatively impact routine immunisation coverage.
“Again, this thanks to all the leadership we have seen at the national and sub-national level and of course, the hard work of frontline health workers,’’ he said.
(NAN)
We have recently deactivated our website's comment provider in favour of other channels of distribution and commentary. We encourage you to join the conversation on our stories via our Facebook, Twitter and other social media pages.
More from Peoples Gazette
Politics
Katsina youths pledge to deliver over 2 million votes to Atiku
“Katsina State is Atiku’s political base because it is his second home.”
Politics
Court dismisses suit seeking Bayelsa governor’s disqualification, awards N500, 000 fine
“I am of the view and I do hold that the suit lacks merit.’’
World
UN increase fight against human trafficking
The UNODC noted that combating child trafficking will be a top priority.
States
1,500 residents benefited from Ogun free surgery, says governor Abiodun
Mr Abiodun said his administration would continue to address the welfare and wellbeing of Ogun residents.
States
Osun governor urges rousing welcome for visiting First Lady
“I am elated to host our dear First Lady and my old colleague at the Senate.’’
World
UN chief urges more investment to bridge $4 trillion financing gap
“Now is the time to shape a global economic and financial system that delivers for people and planet.’’
States
Minister hails Nasarawa for securing mining sites
“I want to commend the governor for taking the bull by the horns.’’