FG committed to strengthening Nigeria’s healthcare financing, says Shettima

Vice President Kashim Shettima reaffirmed on Wednesday the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening healthcare financing and accountability, including vaccine and immunization programs in Nigeria.

Shettima in a statement signed by his spokesperson, Stanley Nkwocha, said the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu-led administration is irreversibly devoted to redefining the idea of modern leadership in the country, particularly that which affects the welfare of Nigerians.

According to the statement issued by Nkwocha, the VP gave this assurance during a high-level strategic meeting on Gavi Alliance support to the Nigerian government at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.

Senator Shettima further applauded the Alliance’s invaluable contributions to improving vaccine coverage in Nigeria, noting the significant increase from 33% to 57% since 2016.

“We are facing some fiscal and monetary challenges, but where there is the will, there is always the way,” Shettima said.

“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 noted while also acknowledging Gavi’s critical role in Nigeria’s polio eradication efforts.

VP Shettima also highlighted 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,” he added.

“This has been instrumental in ensuring the availability and accessibility of vaccines to all Nigerians.”

Soliciting Gavi’s continued support, the Vice President outlined Nigeria’s plans for post-pandemic recovery and integration of immunization services within broader health strategies.

He emphasised the need to mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on immunization programming and rebuild resilient health systems.

“We are grateful for Gavi’s unwavering commitment to Nigeria’s immunization efforts,” he continued.

“We look forward to continued collaboration with Gavi and other stakeholders to achieve universal immunization coverage and ensure the well-being of all Nigerians.”