By Ahmed Ahmed
Prince Abba Umar Ibn Garbai, District Head of Old Maiduguri in Jere LGA, has assured the Borno Zero Dose Learning Hub (ZDLH) Community of Practice (CoP) of his commitment to enhance effective and efficient immunization services in his community.
This pledge was made during an advocacy visit by the Youth, Traditional and Media Sub-Committee of the Borno ZDLH CoP, led by Chairman Ali Yerima Gamboru, to the Shehu’s palace in Shehuri ward recently in Maiduguri.
The visit aimed to engage the traditional ruler, appreciate his resolve towards routine immunization, and encourage him to connect the committee with other traditional rulers in the zero-dose catchment area.
Prince Garbai promised to support the work of the partners in his domain and link the committee with other relevant stakeholders in the Emirate.
“This partnership is crucial in addressing immunization equity issues in Borno State, particularly in identifying zero-dose and under-immunized children using the IRMMA framework.
Earlier, Ali Yerima Gamboru pointed out the partnership would enhance community acceptance of immunization.
“As well ensure transparency and accountability in immunization process,” he said
He said this collaboration between community leaders, healthcare professionals, and government stakeholders would demonstrate the importance of collective effort in improving public health outcomes in Borno State.
Meanwhile the Chairman and members of the entourage shared the work plan developed by the various committees of the Borno Community of Practice, focusing on strengthening community acceptance of immunization
To also ensure transparency and accountability, and advocating for increased budget allocation to the health sector.
The Africa Health Budget Network (AHBN) and the African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET) have partnered to establish the Nigeria Zero Dose Learning Hub (ZDLH), with support from GAVI.
This initiative aims to ensure no child is left behind in the quest for improved immunization coverage.