The African Health Budget Network (AHBN) has urged women to take full advantage of the readily available immunization services at primary healthcare centers (PHCs) to vaccinate their children aged 0–59 months.
This call was made in a press statement commemorating the 2025 International Women’s Day (IWD).
Bauchi State focal person of AHBN, Dr. Hassan Shuaibu, stated that the network, in collaboration with the Bauchi State Government, is proud to recognize the crucial role of women in promoting immunization equity and strengthening primary healthcare services across the state.
AHBN emphasized that PHCs provide a comprehensive range of vaccines, administered by trained healthcare personnel, at no cost to the public.
“By vaccinating their children under the age of five, women are protecting them from life-threatening diseases. This year’s IWD theme, ‘Accelerate Action,’ aligns with our collective mission to empower women as key drivers of health and well-being within their families and communities,” the statement read.
The network further highlighted that immunization remains one of the most cost-effective and impactful public health interventions, safeguarding children from preventable diseases and laying the foundation for a healthier, more productive future.
In Bauchi State, significant progress has been made in strengthening immunization services, as reflected in the 2024 Bauchi State Immunization Financing Scorecard, which showcases the state government’s commitment to allocating resources for immunization programs.
“Women, as primary caregivers and decision-makers, play a crucial role in ensuring that children receive the full course of recommended vaccines. Their knowledge, attitudes, and practices significantly influence immunization uptake rates,” AHBN noted.
To further empower women with the necessary information and resources for informed decision-making, the Zero Dose Learning Hub Nigeria, AHBN, and the Bauchi State Government have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening community engagement strategies to address vaccine hesitancy and promote informed decision-making as well as improving immunization financing through increased budget allocations and timely fund releases.
This is in addition to enhancing data collection and analysis to monitor immunization coverage and identify areas for improvement as well as exploring innovative technologies to optimise vaccine supply chain management and improve service delivery.
“On this International Women’s Day, AHBN reaffirms its commitment to empowering women as champions of health and well-being. By working together, we can ensure that every child in Bauchi State receives the life-saving vaccines they need to thrive.
We call upon all stakeholders, including government agencies, healthcare providers, community leaders, and development partners, to join us in this critical mission,” the statement concluded.
By Lizzy Carr
