Nigeria has launched its largest-ever integrated vaccination campaign, a nationwide effort targeting over 109 million children aged 9 months to 14 years. The goal is to protect them against measles-rubella (MR), human papillomavirus (HPV), polio, and other vaccine-preventable diseases.
This bold move, led by the Federal Ministry of Health in partnership with Gavi, UNICEF, and the World Health Organization (WHO), represents a turning point in Nigeria’s child health strategy.
A Strengthening Health Systems Across Nigeria
The Nigeria integrated vaccination campaign is more than a short-term drive; it’s an investment in long-term health security. With an investment of $103 million from Gavi, the campaign focuses on reaching underserved communities, strengthening cold chain systems, and training health workers.Gavi’s Senior Country Manager for Nigeria, Jessica Crawford, said:
“Reaching over 100 million children with life-saving vaccines is a landmark achievement for global health and Nigeria’s leadership.”
To learn more about Gavi’s partnership with Nigeria, visit Gavi.org.
Collaboration and Technology in Action
Nigeria’s vaccination campaign stands out for its use of digital tools and real-time data to track progress and ensure accountability. Through collaboration between federal and state governments, partners are combining logistics, communication, and monitoring systems to maximize impact.In addition, community engagement remains a top priority. Local health educators and traditional leaders are working to combat misinformation and encourage parents to vaccinate their children.
A Legacy of Progress
Over two decades of partnership between Gavi and Nigeria have already transformed immunisation outcomes. DTP vaccine coverage rose from 27% in 2001 to 67% in 2024, while more than 15 million girls have received the HPV vaccine to prevent cervical cancer.This integrated campaign now represents the next step in that legacy — building on experience, technology, and the dedication of Nigerian health workers to ensure that no child is left behind.
The Bigger Picture
Health experts see this campaign as a blueprint for other African countries, proving that collaboration and country-led action can deliver results at scale.As Nigeria strengthens surveillance, logistics, and outreach, this campaign not only protects children but also reinforces the country’s preparedness against future outbreaks.
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