Nigeria has taken a significant step in fighting malaria with the rollout of the malaria vaccine in Bayelsa and Kebbi States. These states have some of the highest malaria prevalence rates in the country.
According to Professor Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Nigeria accounts for 27% of global malaria cases and 31% of malaria-related deaths, making this vaccine rollout crucial in combating the disease.
The vaccine will be administered to children under one year of age as part of Nigeria’s Routine Immunization schedule. The first phase of the rollout will target all local governments in Bayelsa and Kebbi states, with over 800,000 doses set to be distributed during this phase.
Nigeria’s efforts to combat malaria and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) have gained international recognition, with the country set to host the 5th Global High-Level Ministerial Meeting on AMR in 2026.
