Kabir explained that they are in Kebbi to seek cooperation of the emir and his kinmen to ensure routine uptake of vaccines for both immunisation and periodic immunisation for children ” we are focusing on the killer diseases which include diperia, malaria,tetanus, measles, cholera and Cervical cancer for young girls “.
He said that traditional rulers are critical stakeholders to the facilitation of vaccines acceptance through their sustained advocacy geared towards enlightening them on the need to take them as protection against those killer diseases ” the vaccines are available and for free therefore they should come access them” he said.
Also speaking, the head of Gavi delegation, Dr Jesica Crawford said that their organization is responsible for malaria vaccination in Nigeria saying” the rationale behind their coming to Kebbi and Nigeria is to push massive malaria vaccination to ensure no child in the community is missed in the uptake hence the reason to come for physical engagement to strengthen deeper collaborations with Kebbi state government particularly Kebbi primary healthcare agency.”
In a similar development, the world health organisation ( WHO) through their kebbi state coordinator,Dr Nasir Zurmi donated eleven units of motorcycles to Kebbi state primary healthcare agency to enable vaccinators to get to hard to reach communities in the state” there are some villages that are not motorable so we gjve this motorcycles to assist them in the vaccination process “.
Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Samaila Muhammad Mera, in his response, expressed surprise that there is sharp decline in malaria vaccine acceptance by the community.” People have been asking why Polio vaccines are not malaria, and the vaccines are ready, but people are declining and parents should struggle to get them.”
He attributed the decline to poor public enlightenment as the whole dust dies after each programme; therefore urged them to step up efforts towards constant enlightenment to ensure wider coverage. “I welcome all of you in Kebbi, and as usual, we give you our support”.
The team visited primary healthcare facilities in Takalau in Birnin Kebbi and Argungu.