Badagry (Lagos, Nigeria): The Korean Consul-General to Nigeria, Mr Sang Ho Lee, says the country has earmarked $5.6 million for the children’s immunisation project in Nigeria from December 2025 to 2026.
Lee disclosed this during the flag-off ceremony of the Republic of Korea UNICEF Investments on Routine Immunisation on Thursday in Badagry, Lagos.
He said the purpose of the project was to reduce zero-dose vaccination among children in selected targeted areas comprising 40 local government areas across five states: Lagos, Ogun, Niger, Bauchi, Adamawa, and the Federal Capital Territory.
“The project targets vaccination delivery campaigns, expands sessions in at-risk communities, and strengthens immunisation systems in the identified areas.
It will also address the social and behavioural factors affecting immunisation.
“The choice of Nigeria is strategic because Nigeria records a high volume of children with little or zero-dose immunisation, which poses great danger to global health security,” he said.
The Chairman of Badagry Local Government Area, Mr Babatunde Hunpe, speaking on behalf of two other chairmen in the area, said immunisation is one of the most effective and cost-efficient ways to protect human life.
“Vaccinating a child protects not just that child but also the entire community.
“Diseases such as measles, polio, diphtheria, and meningitis have claimed millions of lives across Africa.
“All these diseases are preventable through routine immunisation.
“Our council includes diverse communities, from coastal to border and rural areas.
“A funded, strategic programme is vital for us because healthy children lead to a prosperous community.
“Healthy children attend school, grow strong, and benefit our local government,” he said.
He, however, expressed the sincere gratitude of the people of the Badagry Federation to UNICEF and the Republic of Korea for the project.
“This partnership shows development thrives when nations and organisations collaborate for the common good.
“UNICEF’s unwavering support for Nigerian children, especially in underserved communities, makes a real impact.
“We are grateful, and we are committed to making the most of this investment,” he said.
Mrs Wafaa Saeed, UNICEF Nigeria Country Representative, called vaccination the most effective public health tool.
According to her, UNICEF estimates that at least 4 million lives are saved each year through vaccination.
“Vaccination protects communities from outbreaks and supports global health,” she added.
“And you know, here in Nigeria, we estimate that there are around two million children on zero dose.
“Zero dose means children receive no vaccinations at all,” she explained.
Saeed commended the government of Nigeria for strengthening the health sector through revitalising the primary healthcare system.
“This is something very important. I also want to commend the Republic of Korea’s leadership and vision.
“The Republic of Korea is a global health security leader, supporting many African countries, including Nigeria.
“This is global solidarity creating national and local impact.
“Korea’s investment affirms that every child deserves protection and a chance to thrive,” she said.
Traditional rulers, government workers, residents and women with infants graced the flag-off ceremony.
