Jigawa State has recorded a remarkable 700% increase in immunization coverage, rising from 7% in 2016 to 49% in 2021, thanks to the innovative “Jakada Lafiya” initiative.
The state government, in partnership with UNICEF and GAVI, launched the initiative to improve immunization coverage and strengthen primary healthcare services.
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The Jakadan Lafiya initiative engages Health Ambassadors, traditional birth attendants, and community leaders to educate caregivers on the importance of immunization and track vaccination status.
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Zakiya Nasiru, a mother of one, travels 6km to get her child immunized, citing awareness and education from Health Ambassadors. “I hardly forget immunization days because of the importance to my child’s health,” she said.
Mamman Wada, a dedicated Health Ambassador, credits the initiative for increased immunization acceptance. “We educate parents and caregivers, identify missed children, and ensure they receive life-saving vaccines.”
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UNICEF has invested over 2 billion naira in Jigawa State to strengthen primary healthcare, focusing on immunization, maternal and child health services.
Dr. Kabiru Ibrahim, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, attributed the success to the Jakada Lafiya initiative and partner interventions. “We aim to build on this progress, leveraging on the MoU to achieve higher coverage.”