By Omoyeni Ojeifo
A new immunization initiative, spearheaded by UNICEF and the Republic of Korea, has kicked off in Badagry, Lagos, to reach thousands of zero-dose children.
UNICEF Nigeria Country Representative Wafaa Saeed described the programme as a significant breakthrough in safeguarding children’s health.
“This launch represents a shared political and moral commitment to every Nigerian child’s right to lifesaving vaccines,” Saeed said in a statement obtained by Persecondnews in Abuja.
She further revealed that Nigeria currently faces the highest burden of unvaccinated children in Africa, with approximately 2.2 million infants yet to receive their first routine vaccine.
“These are real children, often found in fragile urban settlements, border communities, and other hard to reach locations,” she noted.
Saeed emphasised that the issue is not vaccine availability but challenges related to access and equity.
“The real issue lies in persistent gaps in access, equity, and service delivery and not lack of vaccine” she stressed.
She commended the Federal Government and relevant health agencies for prioritising immunisation, noting that the partnership would help strengthen healthcare systems and expand outreach to underserved populations.
“Reaffirming UNICEF’s commitment, Saeed said “This investment is about building stronger systems and ensuring vaccines reach every child, particularly those who have historically been excluded.”
Also speaking at the launch, the Consul General of the Republic of Korea in Lagos, Lee Sang Ho, said the initiative was part of a broader global effort to improve health outcomes.
He disclosed that the Republic of Korea would contribute $70 million to the project, with $5.6 million allocated to Nigeria.
According to him, the programme will cover 40 local government areas across Lagos, Ogun, Niger, Bauchi, Adamawa, and the Federal Capital Territory.
Lee said:“The goal is to reduce the number of zero dose children in targeted areas. Nigeria’s inclusion underscores its importance to global health security.”
He explained that the project would support vaccination campaigns, strengthen immunisation systems, and tackle social and behavioural barriers to vaccine uptake.
The Lagos State Commissioner for Health, Prof. Akin Abayomi, said the initiative aligns with the state’s vision for inclusive healthcare.
“This partnership challenges us to match our economic ambitions with a strong commitment to the health and well being of our children,” he said.
Abayomi reaffirmed the state’s commitment to equitable healthcare access.
“Regardless of location, we are determined to ensure that every child gets quality immunisation and primary healthcare services.”
The Badagry launch highlights ongoing efforts to reach underserved border communities, with stakeholders stressing the importance of sustained collaboration to achieve universal immunisation coverage nationwide.
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