SCI expresses worry over high rate of unvaccinated children in Nigeria

By Tobias Lengnan Dapam

Save the Children UK said it is worry over high rate of children yet to receive a single routine vaccination in Nigeria.
Gemma Sherrington, Save the Children UK CEO, in a statement issued yesterday assured that they are working with GSK to tackle the issue through new immunisation programmes, a fund to support local organisations and innovators, and child-led advocacy.
He said they are thrilled to share information about this innovative partnership with Duke and Duchess of Sussex in light of their long-standing interest in vaccine equity.
“We are honoured that the Duke and Duchess of Sussex took time out of their busy schedule in Nigeria to learn about the work Save the Children does, alongside our youth advocates and partners, to ensure children don’t just survive but thrive.
“Child Champions and Youth Ambassadors are the beating heart of our work in Nigeria so for two of them to have this opportunity to speak with Prince Harry and Meghan, and to shine a spotlight on their tireless advocacy to protect the rights of children, is phenomenal.
“Children in Nigeria face huge challenges. One in ten dies before they reach the age of five. Three in ten girls are married before the age of 18,” he said.
Save the Children Youth Ambassadors (anonymous) said it was an immense privilege to meet the Duke and Duchess of Sussex during their visit to Abuja for them and for the children and young people in Nigeria that we represent.
“Together, we spoke about our work as Save the Children Youth Ambassadors to ensure that children stay safe, learning and healthy and the importance of having young people’s voices at the heart of decision-making when those decisions affect our future.
“We know the scale of the issues children face here but we will not stop fighting for a Nigeria in which all children go to school, and all have access to life-saving immunisations against disease,” he said.