By Ahmed Ahmed
In a bid to strengthen immunization efforts and ensure no child is left behind, the Africa Health Budget Network (AHBN) has partnered with the African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET) to establish the Nigeria Zero Dose Learning Hub (ZDLH).
GAVI established the ZDLH to address immunization equity issues by identifying zero-dose and under-immunized children using the IRMMA (Identify, Reach, Monitor, Measure, and Account) framework.
As part of its advocacy efforts, the AHBN-led Community of Practice (CoP) paid a visit to the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Borno State.
The delegation, led by Dr. Ali D.Gambo, Chairman of the CoP, and Dr. Adamu A.Umar, AHBN Borno State ZDLH Focal Person, sought to enlist the media’s support in promoting immunization budget tracking, accountability, and sustainability.
The NUJ Chairman, Comrade Dauda Iliya, received the delegation alongside the state NUJ Secretary, Comrade Ali Chiroma, and other union members.
Dr. Gambo and Dr. Umar explained the ZDLH project’s objectives and the concept of the Community of Practice. They highlighted the critical role journalists can play in:
“That include, community engagement, factual reporting, influencing policy makers to prioritize healthcare financing, particularly immunization
The meeting discussed challenges hindering routine immunization uptake in Borno State, including, access to hard-to-reach areas, insecurity, limited awareness and Vaccine hesitancy
Chairman Iliya assured the CoP members of the NUJ’s willingness to partner with AHBN, state PHCDA, and other Routine Immunization partners to address these challenges.
“Journalists have a critical role in shaping public opinion and influencing policy,” Iliya stated.
“We commit to supporting AHBN’s efforts to improve immunization coverage in Borno State.”
“By building on this partnership, AHBN, NUJ, and other stakeholders would ensure no child is left behind in Borno State’s immunization efforts,” he said.
