Nigeria Boosts Malaria Vaccine Drive Despite Budget and Supply Strains

Nigeria has stepped up efforts to expand its malaria vaccination programme nationwide as part of its broader push to reduce deaths caused by the disease, health authorities say.

Officials from the National Primary Health Care Development Agency disclosed that the rollout, which began in selected pilot states, is now being extended to more regions following early implementation success and improved preparedness in primary health systems.

However, the expansion is happening against the backdrop of rising financial pressure, as support from international partners is reportedly reducing, forcing the country to rely more on domestic funding to sustain vaccine procurement, distribution, and related logistics.

Health authorities explained that running the programme goes beyond simply providing vaccines, noting that it also involves maintaining cold chain systems, transportation, staffing, waste disposal, and follow-up immunisation schedules for children.

One of the key challenges identified is ensuring that children complete all required doses of the malaria vaccine, which is administered in multiple stages. Health officials say missed appointments and dropouts remain a concern in some communities.

Despite these hurdles, the government maintains that the vaccination drive remains a critical part of Nigeria’s strategy to combat malaria, which continues to be one of the country’s leading public health challenges.

Authorities are calling for stronger domestic investment and public cooperation to ensure the long-term success of the programme as external funding becomes less predictable.