The Health Sector Reform Coalition (HSRC) has urged all Nigerians to embrace vaccination as a key tool for preventing disease and promoting healthier lives.
In a statement signed by HSRC chairperson, Dr. Muhammad Lecky the coalition emphasised the role of vaccines in advancing public health and preventing infectious diseases. Lecky highlighted that vaccines remain one of the most cost-effective health interventions globally and, by choosing vaccination, individuals protect not only themselves but also the wider community.
HSRC noted that vaccines save millions of lives each year by reducing disease transmission, preventing outbreaks and safeguarding vulnerable populations, including children and the elderly. The coalition pointed to the successful eradication of smallpox globally and the elimination of the wild poliovirus in Nigeria as evidence of vaccines’ safety and effectiveness.
The coalition appealed to Nigerians to support vaccination initiatives by the government and international development partners, emphasising the importance of seeking accurate information. HSRC urged the public to rely on credible sources like the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), the World Health Organisation (WHO) and UNICEF for guidance on vaccination.
In addressing vaccine hesitancy fueled by myths and misinformation, HSRC called on the government to prioritize community education programmes. These initiatives would help dispel myths and clarify the importance of vaccinations, particularly against preventable diseases. The coalition also encouraged Nigerians to participate in respectful and informed discussions about vaccines, hoping to foster a culture of health-conscious decisions.
To strengthen vaccination efforts, HSRC urged the government to continuously monitor and evaluate vaccine safety and effectiveness, collaborate with healthcare professionals, government agencies and community leaders and incorporate vaccine education into school curricula. Commending the media’s role in raising awareness, HSRC encouraged journalists to verify information from credible sources, avoid sensationalism, and maintain balanced reporting. “Vaccines are a valuable public good, safeguarding not only individual health but also the well-being of our communities. We must unite in promoting vaccine awareness, understanding and acceptance,” the HSRC statement concluded.
