The BOOST Project, implemented by Save the Children International with funding from GlaxoSmithKline, in collaboration with the Kano State Community of Practice on Immunisation, Budget Tracking, Advocacy and Accountability (Kn-CoP), has intensified advocacy for stronger legislative backing to improve immunisation coverage in Kano State.
As part of this effort, the Kano Community of Practice, in collaboration with BOOST Project, paid an advocacy visit to the Kano State House of Assembly to push for enhanced policies and increased funding to address the challenge of zero-dose and under-immunised children across the state.
During the visit, the delegation engaged Hon. Abdulhamid Abdul, member representing Minjibir Local Government Area and Chairman of the House Committee on Appropriations.
The discussions centred on the need to improve budgetary allocation for immunisation, support vaccination efforts through constituency projects, and strengthen policy frameworks that promote routine immunisation.
Speaking during the engagement, the BOOST Project Advocacy Officer, Umar Ibrahim, said the visit aimed to deepen collaboration with lawmakers to ensure greater prioritisation of immunisation programmes.
He stressed that adequate funding and effective policy implementation are essential to closing gaps in vaccine coverage and reducing the number of zero-dose and under-immunised children in Kano State.
According to him, strengthening routine immunisation systems requires deliberate legislative commitment, particularly in budget planning and oversight.
The delegation, led by its Chairman, Salisu Yusuf, commended the lawmaker for granting them audience. He noted that the partnership between the Community of Practice and key stakeholders has remained consistent and impactful.
Yusuf added that sustained collaboration has continued to yield positive results, especially in promoting accountability and improving healthcare service delivery in the state.
Respinding, Abdulhamid Abdul assured the delegation of his commitment to supporting the initiative, pledging to provide the necessary legislative backing to achieve its objectives.
He further disclosed plans to brief the Chairman of the House Committee on Health and other key members of the Assembly on the issues raised.
He also proposed a broader engagement involving lawmakers and stakeholders to explore sustainable solutions to immunisation challenges in Kano State.
The visit concluded with the presentation of a souvenir to the lawmaker by the BOOST Project team in appreciation of his support and engagement.
The BOOST Project, currently being implemented in Gezawa and Ungoggo Local Government Areas, aims to strengthen routine immunisation systems and ensure that every child has access to life-saving vaccines.