FG Collaborates with Traditional Rulers to Combat Zero-Dose Children

The Federal Government of Nigeria is seeking the collaboration of traditional rulers in Northern Nigeria to eliminate the increasing number of zero-dose children. At the Quarterly Review Meeting of the Northern Traditional Leaders Committee on Primary Health Care (NTLCC), Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate, urged traditional leaders to combat vaccine hesitancy, identify missed communities, and ensure that every eligible child receives routine immunization and primary healthcare services.

Pate acknowledged the NTLCC's significant contributions since its establishment in 2009, which have improved immunization uptake, maternal and child health, and disease prevention. He commended the Emir of Argungu and other traditional rulers for their leadership and efforts.

Despite Nigeria maintaining its wild polio-free status, Pate highlighted the need to address the emergence of circulating variant poliovirus and close routine immunization gaps. He emphasized that while the Federal Government will continue to invest in primary healthcare, state governments must also enhance these efforts, as they are primarily responsible for service delivery.