Immunization remains a critical pillar in safeguarding children’s health globally, yet achieving universal vaccination coverage poses significant challenges. In 2020, over 12.4 million children in lower and middle-income countries did not receive any vaccines, a vulnerable group known as “zero-dose children.” Nigeria faces a particularly alarming situation, with an estimated 2.2 million zero-dose children in 2021. To address this urgent issue, the signatories of the Global Action Plan for Healthy Lives and Well-being for All (SDG3 GAP) are partnering with the Nigerian government to ensure that every child receives life-saving immunization services.
The joint efforts of SDG3 GAP partners and the Nigerian government have focused on identifying and reaching zero-dose communities, often located in remote, urban poor, or conflict-affected areas. In 2020, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), with support from UNICEF and WHO, developed a data system to pinpoint zero-dose communities across the country. This initiative led to a detailed analysis of 100 local government areas (LGAs) in 18 states, accounting for 1.5 million zero-dose children. The findings informed the design of priority actions within the National Strategy for Immunization and PHC System Strengthening (NSIPSS).
To accelerate progress, the NPHCDA, alongside WHO, UNICEF, and other partners, developed the Immunization Recovery Plan 2022-2025, including a Big Catchup Plan specifically targeting zero-dose children. The plan leverages previous investments in polio eradication and COVID-19 response to expand immunization coverage nationwide.
In addition, partners have transformed community networks into formal Community Health Influencers, Promoters, and Services (CHIPS), ensuring local ownership and engagement in immunization efforts. With ongoing support from SDG3 GAP partners, the Nigerian government is making significant strides in closing immunization gaps and securing sustainable financing for primary healthcare services, aiming for full state government funding by 2028.
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