By Fatima Mohammed-Lawal

Dr Michael Oguntoye, the Director of Kwara State Primary Healthcare System, has hailed the Malaria vaccination pilot programme in two Nigerian states as a significant success.

Oguntoye made the statement on Friday during the celebration of World Malaria Day in Ilorin.

He explained that Nigeria had officially rolled out the R21 malaria vaccine, incorporating it into the country’s routine immunisation programme.

He expressed optimism that the health intervention would soon extend to other states, including Kwara.

“Malaria is now one of the diseases that is vaccine-preventable.

“We all know that malaria is one of the leading public health challenges in this region,” Oguntoye noted.

He further emphasised that the vaccine would help protect children from the disease.

The pilot programmes in Kebbi and Bayelsa States, he added, had shown significant success in saving children’s lives. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Augusta Uchediunor/Abiemwense Moru