By Lizzy Carr
Bauchi State has emerged as the first among four Nigerian states with zero-dose children to release 100 percent of its 2025 immunization funding.
This was revealed during the third-quarter review meeting of the Zero-Dose Learning Hub’s Community of Practice on Immunization Budget Tracking, Accountability and Sustainability, held in Bauchi.
Findings from the 2021 Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) and National Immunization Coverage Survey (NICS) identified Bauchi as having 13 of the 100 zero-dose local government areas (LGAs) nationwide. Stakeholders at the meeting noted that ongoing interventions by government and partners are helping to address these indices.
In a show of commitment, the Bauchi State Government approved and released ₦872,366,636 for immunization activities in 2025.
The African Health Budget Network (AHBN) and the Bauchi Zero-Dose Learning Hub commended the state for this landmark achievement, describing it as a model for others.
State Focal person AHBN Dr. Hassan Shuaibu Musa, said sustained advocacy by the network and the community of practice had improved quarterly budget releases.
He recommended that the State Primary Health Care Development Board (SPHCDB) ensure at least 80 percent of its 2025 budget is released and called for targeted interventions to reduce dropout rates and boost Penta 3 coverage.
Dr. Hassan added that the review meeting aimed to validate the 2025 immunization scorecard data, assess advocacy outcomes, and explore how the media can amplify the Zero-Dose Hub’s impact.
The focal person noted as next steps the need to continue to advocate for better budget releases, strengthen immunization interventions at Basic Health Care Provision Fund facilities and promote transparency and accountability in immunization financing.
Also speaking, AHBN Convener, Dr. Aminu Magashi, disclosed that plans are underway to establish a training and conference centre in Bauchi for civil society organizations (CSOs). He lauded the state’s commitment to immunization financing, especially after the expiration of memorandum of understanding (MoU) immunization basket fund between the Gates Foundation, Dangote Foundation and the Bauchi State Government
Stakeholders at the meeting emphasized the need for sustained advocacy on gender mainstreaming in immunization activities , use of community based social structures to promote uptake of vaccines, antenatal care, postnatal care, and hospital deliveries, male involvement as well as ensuring that the annual operational plan aligns with budgetary provisions.
A panel session on “ Media Engagement Advocacy, Reflections Outcomes and Challenges ” highlighted the crucial role of journalists in amplifying outcomes, mobilizing communities, and holding stakeholders accountable. Panelists, however, pointed out challenges including limited access to health data, political interference, and inadequate funding for investigative health reporting. They called for stronger partnerships between media, academia, CSOs, and health MDAs in training and capacity building.
Meanwhile, the Aminu Garba Magashi Foundation honoured outstanding health workers for their dedication. Recipients included Sulaiman Adamu Musa, awarded Most Committed PHC Staff; Nasiru Alhaji Modibbo, recognized as Most Committed Volunteer; and Judith Chancit Haruna alongside Marwanu Musa, both named Most Patient-Friendly PHC Staff.
