A non-profit organisation, the Vaccine Network for Disease Control, has raised concern over the delay in the release of the N60bn immunisation fund for 2023.
Its founder, Mrs Chika Offor, while speaking about the delay on Thursday in Abuja, noted that amid Nigeria’s commendable commitments to public health, the development delay in releasing the budgetary allocation poses a significant threat.
She said, “The absence of timely funds jeopardises progress in controlling infectious diseases, leaving vulnerable populations, especially children at risk of vaccine-preventable diseases.
“An impact analysis reveals that if funds remain unreleased by Dec. 31, the allocation will expire, hindering vaccine procurement and potentially leading to shortages.
“The situation can undermine President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, dealing a severe blow to healthcare objectives.”
Offor called for urgent action to facilitate the release of the fund, even as she underscored the need for a clear commitment from stakeholders to align with the president’s health blueprint.
“By meeting financial obligations, Nigeria can demonstrate resilience, responsibility and dedication to sustain progress in public health, ensuring a healthier future for citizens,” she added.
According to her, the immunisation budget is a crucial component of the overall health expenditure, designed to ensure the availability of vaccines, strong healthcare infrastructure, and support comprehensive vaccination campaigns across the country.
“With funds yet to be released, health authorities and stakeholders are increasingly concerned about the potential consequences for public health.
“Experts have warned that the lack of funds for immunisation programmes can lead to a rise in vaccine-preventable diseases, putting vulnerable populations, particularly children and the elderly at risk,” he added.
SOURCE:PUNCh