FG Releases ₦10bn To Support Local Production Of COVID-19 Vaccines

• Nigeria expects a delivery of its first batch of COVID-19 vaccines at the end of January
• However, NAFDAC has said that the administration of the vaccine is subject to its approval

The Federal Government said it has released the sum of ₦10billion to bankroll domestic production of COVID-19 vaccines.

Minister of Health, Osagie Ehanire, who disclosed this on Monday during the Presidential Task Force (PTF) on COVID-19 briefing, said the Federal Government is working to develop the country’s own vaccines.

Ehanire said the government is considering the option of local production of the vaccines in the country and have had discussions with a producer.

Read also: Nigeria To Receive 10 Million Covid-19 Vaccine In March – Ehanire

He also noted that while the nation seeks to get its own vaccines, other options are being explored for licensed production in collaboration with recognized institutions.

On claims of having COVID-19 vaccines for sale by some persons in Nigeria, the Health Minister warned all citizens to disregard these claims as they are criminal.

“There are procedures for vaccine acquisition and use which include appropriate regulation and certification by NAFDAC,” Ehanire said.

He stressed that there is no vaccine yet approved for use, adding that the NPHCDA is the only authorized vaccine administrator in Nigeria.

Ehanire also noted that while the prospect of a vaccine arriving soon is cheering, the importance of non-pharmaceutical measures remains critical to preventing infections.

“Wear your face masks, wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitizers, avoid close contacts and crowded places and if you have symptoms like cough, difficulty in breathing, sudden loss of taste and smell, and fever, please get tested,” the minister advised.