By Ahmed Ahmed
The Bauchi State Deputy Governor, Auwal Mohammed Jatau, has pledged to join forces with the Bauchi State Zero Dose Learning Hub Community of Practice (CoP) to combat zero-dose immunization communities in the state.
This commitment comes after a meeting with CoP members, led by AHBN’s Coordinator/CEO, Dr. Aminu Magashi on Thursday in Bauchi
Jatau reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to improving immunization coverage, assuring that the N870 million for immunisation 2025 would be in the budget
He said the administration of Government Bala Mohammed is committed to counterpart funding, calling on all stakeholders in health, legislators to ensure the immunization budget had scale
“We recognize the importance of immunization in preventing infectiou, diseases and will work closely with the CoP to address zero-dose communities.” He said.
Jatau stressed that by joining forces with the CoP and emphasizing budget tracking and allocation,
The State can make significant progress in combating zero-dose immunization communities and promoting overall public health,” he said.
Earlier, Dr. Magashi emphasied the need for budget tracking to address zero-dose communities,
He advocated for Increase awareness and advocacy as well as strengthen partnership between government, NGOs, and community leaders.
He stressed that monitoring immunization budgets would ensure effective allocation and utilization of resources, ultimately increasing immunization coverage.
“The absence of a dedicated budget line for immunization hinders our efforts to eradicate zero-dose communities.
“We urge the Bauchi State government to prioritize immunization funding to protect vulnerable populations,”Dr. Magashi said.
Also Speaking, Dr. Hassan Shuaibu Musa, the Bauchi State AHBN Focal Person explained that Zero Dose Learning Hub Community of Practice (CoP) is a collaborative platform that brings together stakeholders to share knowledge, experiences,
He said the objective of the CoP is to reduce zero-dose communities and improve immunization coverage in Bauchi State.