…Over 90% coverage achieved in previous rounds as officials urge parents to bring children forward for immunisation
By NewsDesk
The Anambra State Primary Health Care Development Agency (ASPHCDA) has announced plans to roll out the third and final round of its Big Catch Up (BCU) vaccination campaign from April 22 to April 27.
The BCU campaign is part of a broader effort to strengthen routine immunisation in Nigeria and close gaps in vaccine coverage across the country.
The campaign will focus on nine Local Government Areas (LGAs) identified as low-performing in routine immunisation: Aguata, Ayamelum, Anaocha, Idemili North, Idemili South, Ihiala, Orumba North, Orumba South, and Nnewi South.
According to ASPHCDA’s Executive Secretary, Mrs. Chisom Uchem, represented by Dr. Nnamdi Uliagbafusi, Director of Disease Control and Immunisation, the exercise is crucial for reaching children who missed earlier doses.
“The BCU campaign was designed to bridge the gap in immunisation coverage, particularly for zero dose children and children who may have missed their scheduled vaccinations,” Dr Uliagbafusi said.
“This is to strengthen routine immunisation, protect children from vaccine-preventable diseases, and ultimately save lives”.
State Immunisation Officer, Mrs. Edith Onwuka, said Anambra surpassed its 65% target in the previous rounds, which were held in December 2024 and February 2025.
“This third round is especially important because it enables children who received earlier doses to complete their immunisation schedule,” she said.
A representative of the World Health Organisation (WHO), Mr. Ndubisi Oji, revealed that the state achieved 96% coverage in the first round and 94% in the second.
“We must remain committed to maintaining this momentum and achieving success in the final round,” he said.
Dr Uju Eze, a consultant with UNICEF, urged stakeholders to adopt innovative strategies to mobilise communities and reach underserved areas.
The state’s Health Educator, Mrs. Uju Onwuegbuzina, encouraged parents and caregivers to prioritise their children’s health:
“The vaccines are safe, effective, and free. We urge parents to take advantage of this opportunity and ensure their children are immunised,” she said.