Some eminent Borno indigenes, including the Shehu Borno, Dr Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Al-Amin Elkanemi, have called on Borno residents to accept the coronavirus vaccine when it is available in the state.
Shehu compared the COVID-19 vaccines to polio vaccines that citizens have been taking for years, saying it has been certified by experts and relevant health organisations.
He said, “It is a welcome development, our people of Borno should comply with what the federal government has said. There is no doubt that all the people of Borno will take this vaccine, including traditional rulers, religious leaders and everybody because it is in our interest.
“I am sure the people of Borno will receive this vaccine in good faith because coronavirus is a dangerous disease, so we thank President Muhammadu Buhari and everyone.
“I urge the people of Borno to cooperate. All the emirs, district heads, village heads and their subjects will take it. As soon as the vaccines are brought here after the governor takes it, we will take. We know it is good for us, and anything that is bad government will not introduce it, so it is for our good.”
The chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria, Borno State chapter, Bishop Mohammed Naga, said the government should ensure the vaccines reach everyone, irrespective of tribe, ethnicity and religious backgrounds.
“Sincerely, coronavirus is a reality. We have talked with state leaders. I think there are professionals who certified that it is good and not harmful, so I urge the entire Christian community to accept this vaccine.
“There is nothing harmful about it. It has been proved and certified by professionals, so we urge the people to avail themselves for the vaccine. We are demanding that the government should also allow it to go round the masses,” Bishop Naga said.
The state chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), Dr Ali Ramat, said frontline workers were ready to take the vaccines to protect themselves before administering to others.
“The frontline workers should get it first. It is just natural to protect yourself first; frontline workers are to be alive to save lives,” Ali said.
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