By Cross Udo, Abuja
Vice President Kashim Shettima yesterday reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to strengthening its healthcare system financing and accountability, especially the vaccine and immunization programmes.
He said the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led federal government is irreversibly devoted to redefining the idea of modern leadership in the country, particularly as it pertains to the welfare of Nigerians.
The VP stated this during a high-level strategic meeting on Gavi Alliance support to the Nigerian government at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
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Shettima applauded the Alliance’s invaluable contributions to improving vaccine coverage in Nigeria, noting the significant increase from 33% to 57% since 2016.
A statement issued by Shettima’s spokesman, Stanley Nkwocha, quoted him as saying, “We are facing some fiscal and monetary challenges, but where there is the will, there is always the way. President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is irrevocably committed to redefining the meaning and concept of modern leadership in this country. We are committed to the welfare of our nation.”
The vice president also acknowledged Gavi’s critical role in Nigeria’s polio eradication efforts, highlighting the last reported case in 2016, even as he emphasised the government’s dedication to sustainable domestic financing for immunization programmes and its exploration of innovative financing mechanisms.
“We appreciate Gavi’s assistance in strengthening vaccine supply chain management and cold chain infrastructure. This has been instrumental in ensuring the availability and accessibility of vaccines to all Nigerians,” he added.
