Nigeria Embarks on Historic $103 Million Nationwide Vaccination Drive to Protect Over 100 Million Children
Nigeria’s Federal Ministry of Health has launched the nation’s largest-ever integrated vaccination campaign, aiming to reach approximately 109 million children aged 9 months to 14 years. The campaign will deliver vaccines against measles-rubella (MR), human papillomavirus (HPV) – which protects against cervical cancer – polio, and other routine immunisations.
The ambitious nationwide exercise is being implemented in collaboration with Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, UNICEF, the World Health Organization (WHO), and a broad coalition of civil society organisations and development partners. It marks an unprecedented level of cooperation among stakeholders and represents a once-in-a-generation opportunity to transform Nigeria’s immunisation landscape.
Gavi is supporting the initiative with an investment of USD 103 million, highlighting its long-standing commitment to equitable access, country-led innovation, and sustainable health systems. The campaign builds on decades of investment in Nigeria’s healthcare infrastructure, including cold chain systems, workforce training, and digital tools for data management and real-time monitoring.
The integrated approach incorporates advanced technology and data-driven strategies to enhance planning, track progress, and engage communities more effectively. It is designed as a model that other nations can replicate to scale up immunisation and child health services.
Jessica Crawford, Senior Country Manager for Nigeria at Gavi, hailed the campaign as a turning point in global immunisation efforts.
“This campaign is a landmark moment for Nigeria and for global health in general. It is bold, ambitious, and deeply rooted in country leadership. Reaching over 100 million children with life-saving vaccines is no small feat, and what makes it truly remarkable is the collaboration behind it — from government to communities, partners, and health workers. Gavi is proud to support this effort with $103 million, but even prouder to stand with Nigeria as a partner in delivering equity, innovation, and impact at scale.”
Gavi has been partnering with Nigeria for over two decades to expand access to vaccines for vulnerable populations. Since 2001, Nigeria’s coverage for three doses of the DTP vaccine has increased from 27% to 67%, thanks to continued investment and collaboration. The recent rollout of the HPV vaccine, which has already protected over 15 million girls from cervical cancer, further demonstrates the country’s capacity to deliver large-scale immunisation programmes.
