Nigeria has expanded its malaria vaccination programme to more states as part of efforts to curb the disease burden, even as declining donor support raises concerns over the sustainability of immunisation financing.

The Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Muyi Aina, disclosed this on Tuesday in Abuja during the agency’s first quarterly media briefing for 2026.

Aina said the programme has moved beyond its pilot phase in Bayelsa and Kebbi states to include Bauchi and Ondo, following readiness assessments. He noted that the expansion is part of a broader strategy to integrate malaria vaccination into routine immunisation in high-burden areas.

He explained that funding for vaccines is sourced from both government allocations and development partners, particularly Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, but warned that external funding is gradually declining, requiring increased domestic investment.

According to him, vaccine financing covers not only procurement but also logistics such as syringes, cold chain systems, waste management, and distribution, all of which contribute significantly to overall costs.

Despite progress, Aina identified challenges in ensuring full immunisation coverage, noting that the malaria vaccine requires four doses and depends on consistent follow-up.

He said dropout rates between doses remain a concern, prompting efforts to strengthen tracking systems and improve compliance among caregivers.

Providing updates on coverage, Aina said nearly 1.3 million children have received at least one dose across implementing states, including Kebbi, Bayelsa, Ondo and Bauchi. He added that more than 600,000 doses are currently stored within the national cold chain system for ongoing distribution.

The agency emphasised that vaccines remain among the most effective and cost-efficient public health interventions, highlighting their safety and role in preventing diseases.

Aina called for sustained public confidence in immunisation programmes and health workers, stressing the need for continued investment in staffing and incentives to support vaccine delivery nationwide.

Nigeria’s expanded malaria vaccination effort marks a significant step in tackling one of its leading public health challenges, but officials say long-term success will depend on stronger domestic funding, efficient logistics and ensuring children complete the full vaccination schedule.