The downward trend of COVID-19 infections, coupled with the global relaxation of restrictions and guidelines, has no doubt proven to be a huge challenge to the administration of the vaccination.
In Abuja, Nigeria’s federal capital, the statistics are worrisome because as at June 10 only 34% of FCT population, 546, 633, has so far been vaccinated for the 1st dose which puts FCT 2nd when compared with other states in the North Central zone and 6th nationwide.
Furthermore, only 23% of FCT’s eligible population, 336,079, have been vaccinated for the 2nd dose, making it 8th nationwide, while only 32,524 have taken booster shots.
The target, looking at end of June, for FCT is 1,544,924 which is approximately half of its population, and 70% by the end of September.
Hence the need for this clarion call for strengthened awareness aimed at dispelling rumour and misconceptions on the COVID-19 vaccination.
There is no doubt that hesitancy and misconceptions still exist about COVID-19, everyone is tired, but it is high time the FCT population realized that taking the COVID-19 vaccination is not harmful so every eligible adult should be encouraged to go for the vaccination.
Mrs. Nana Yusuf, Head, Advocacy, Communication and Social Mobilisation, COVID Risk Comm. Centre
