Nigeria's Immunisation Coverage Stalls Below Targets

Nigeria's routine immunisation system is facing significant challenges, with DTP3 coverage stagnating at approximately 62-63% between 2023 and 2025, far below the national target of 90%. Measles vaccination coverage is particularly weak for the second dose.

Although vaccines are available and services continue, many children are not receiving full immunisation, indicating that the healthcare system is not functioning effectively. The consequences of missed vaccinations can include illness, hospital admissions, and even death.

The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) has rejected allegations regarding the quality of auto-disable immunisation syringes, asserting that procurement processes meet required standards. However, confidence in immunisation products remains a concern.

The article emphasizes that while vaccines may reach warehouses, they often fail to reach remote communities, and mothers face barriers in accessing vaccinations for their children. Complete national coverage data for 2026 is not yet available, but the stagnation in coverage from 2023 to 2025 raises alarms about the effectiveness of the immunisation system.