Health Partners Evaluate Routine Immunisation Programme in Sokoto State

International and local health partners have commenced an assessment of routine immunisation delivery in Sokoto State as part of efforts to strengthen healthcare services in North-West Nigeria.

The evaluation team, comprising representatives from the World Health Organisation, UNICEF, and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, is reviewing the state's cold chain infrastructure, vaccine supply logistics, and community outreach programmes.

Sokoto State has historically faced challenges in achieving optimal immunisation coverage, with geographical barriers, cultural beliefs, and inadequate healthcare infrastructure contributing to lower vaccination rates compared to other regions of the country.

The assessment focuses on identifying gaps in the immunisation supply chain, evaluating the capacity of healthcare workers to administer vaccines, and determining the effectiveness of community engagement strategies in promoting vaccination acceptance.

Health officials say the findings will inform targeted interventions to improve routine immunisation coverage, which is crucial for protecting children against preventable diseases such as measles, polio, whooping cough, and diphtheria.

The partnership reflects ongoing collaboration between the Nigerian government and international health organisations to achieve the goals of the National Immunisation Programme, which aims to ensure that all eligible children receive life-saving vaccines regardless of their location.

During the assessment, the team is visiting primary healthcare centres across the state to observe vaccination sessions, interview healthcare workers, and gather data on vaccine stock levels and cold chain equipment functionality.

Community leaders in Sokoto have welcomed the assessment, expressing hope that it will lead to improved healthcare services in their areas. Traditional rulers play a crucial role in healthcare delivery in the region, with their support often determining the success of public health interventions.

The evaluation comes as Nigeria continues its push to maintain polio-free status and improve coverage of other essential vaccines. Health authorities say strengthening routine immunisation in underserved states like Sokoto is critical to achieving national health security goals.

Preliminary findings from the assessment are expected to be shared with the Sokoto State Ministry of Health within the next month, with recommendations for addressing identified challenges.