The United States has provided Nigeria with a donation of 10,000 doses of the Jynneos vaccine, which is authorized by the FDA for the prevention of smallpox and mpox in adults aged 18 and over who are at risk of these infections.
During the official handover ceremony in Abuja, Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof Muhammad Pate, expressed appreciation to the US government for this contribution.
Pate, represented by the Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Daju Kachollom, highlighted the ongoing spirit of international cooperation and the crucial role this vaccine will play in Nigeria’s public health efforts.
Kachollom emphasized the government’s dedication to improving national health and acknowledged the importance of collaborative efforts with international partners such as USAID, PEPFAR, WHO, and UNICEF.
He also noted the commitment of Nigerian health officials, including Minister of Health Dr. Tunji Alausa, to advancing the country’s health sector.
The donation of these vaccine doses is expected to support Nigeria’s efforts in combating mpox and addressing broader public health concerns.
He said:
“This is a spirit of cooperation and collaboration through the years, and this vaccine will be of great help to us. The Federal Ministry of Health understands the importance of having a healthy nation, so all the policies that we implement and the collaborations are focused on ensuring our citizens’ health.
“The Minister emphasises that all health matters are important to him, and Nigeria is very fortunate to have such a dedicated Coordinating Minister and Dr Tunji Alausa as the Minister of State for Health. Together, we are transforming the health sector.
“Thank you for the 10,000 doses, and we look forward to receiving more. I also want to thank our development partners, USAID, PEPFAR, WHO, UNICEF, and all the UN organisations. Your collaboration is greatly appreciated, and this will significantly aid those in need.
“We all recognise the size of our population, and we must ensure that we address every disease, especially those that pose public health concerns. On this note, I would like to extend our gratitude.”
