By Akinsuroju Olubunmi
Tinubu facilitates funds for vaccine procurement, GAVI offers $250m grant
President Bola Tinubu has taken decisive action to ensure the availability of vaccines in Nigeria by directing the release of necessary funds for vaccine procurement. Tinubu’s directive came during a meeting with a delegation from GAVI, the Vaccine Alliance, led by its Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Sania Nishtar.
Emphasizing Nigeria’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations, Tinubu assured GAVI of the government’s dedication to providing routine vaccines for 2023. Additionally, he urged GAVI to collaborate with potential Nigerian vaccine manufacturers to ensure equitable access to life-saving vaccines.
Tinubu highlighted the capability and readiness of local manufacturers to produce vaccines at scale, underscoring the importance of partnering with them to address the challenges faced by developing countries during the COVID-19 pandemic and other infectious disease outbreaks.
Nigeria’s designation as one of the six manufacturing bases for the COVID-19 vaccine further reinforces the need for collaboration in local vaccine production. Tinubu’s proactive approach aligns with previous commitments by the Nigerian government to expand collaboration for vaccine research, development, and manufacturing.
During the meeting, Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s focus on ensuring universal vaccination coverage for preventable childhood diseases. He commended GAVI’s commitment to humanity and emphasized the importance of collaboration to protect children from preventable diseases.
In response, Dr. Nishtar congratulated Nigeria on its innovative health-sector initiatives and expressed readiness to collaborate with the government to advance health outcomes. She announced GAVI’s commitment to providing a $250 million grant to Nigeria and addressing vaccine inequity in Africa through initiatives like the African Vaccine Manufacturing Accelerator.
As discussions continue, both parties recognize the critical role Nigeria plays in GAVI’s success and are committed to ensuring sustained support beyond 2028. The visit underscores the importance of collaboration between Nigeria and GAVI to enhance healthcare delivery and save lives.
Tinubu facilitates, vaccine procurement