Global Big Catch-Up program vaccinates 18.3 million children, targets zero-dose children
via Punch Nigeria4 min read
A global vaccination initiative, the Big Catch-Up program, has reached 18.3 million children across 36 countries, delivering over 100 million doses of vaccines between 2023 and 2025. The program, a collaboration between Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the World Health Organization, and UNICEF, aimed to close immunization gaps and restore routine health services disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Approximately 12.3 million of the children reached were "zero-dose" children, who had never received any vaccine, and about 15 million had not been vaccinated against measles. The initiative also administered 23 million doses of inactivated polio vaccine. The 36 participating countries, primarily in Africa and Asia, account for about 60 percent of the world's zero-dose children. The program expanded its focus to include older children aged one to five, strengthening health systems, training workers, and updating eligibility policies. Ethiopia vaccinated over 2.5 million previously zero-dose children, and Nigeria reached around two million. Despite these gains, the agencies stressed that strengthening routine immunization systems is crucial, as 14.3 million infants in 2024 did not receive a single routine vaccine, leading to a sharp rise in measles outbreaks. Tedros Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization, noted the program helped reverse a major negative consequence of the pandemic. Catherine Russell, Executive Director of UNICEF, and Sania Nishtar, Chief Executive
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James Faleke, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Finance, stated that Nigeria's rapid development relies significantly on civil servants maintaining integrity and due process, even when facing pressure from political office holders. Faleke made these remarks in Abuja during the launch of "The Nigerian Legislature: A Practical Guide for Lawmakers," a book by Oscar Okoro, the retiring Clerk of the House Committee on Finance. Faleke emphasized that civil servants are the backbone of governance, crucial for implementing government policies according to established rules. He highlighted that if civil servants adhere strictly to rules, the country would benefit, even if it means resisting politicians who suggest alternative approaches. Faleke described Okoro as a dedicated public servant whose career exemplifies hard work and commitment. Deputy Chairman of the House Committee on Finance, Abubakar Saidu, and House spokesman, Akin Rotimi, also praised Okoro's professionalism, integrity, and diligence, recommending his career as a model for younger public servants. Okoro attributed his achievements to hard work, patience, and humility, and plans to return to legal practice and consultancy while mentoring young people. Professor Kabir Danladi, who reviewed the book, noted that the 335-page publication offers practical insights into Nigeria's legislature, covering its constitutional foundations, structures, procedures, and oversight responsibilities, making it a valua
Must ReadThe Director-General of the World Health Organization, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, visited Uganda following an Ebola outbreak that has resulted in two deaths after spreading from the Democratic Republic of Congo. The WHO declared an international health emergency for this outbreak, which began on May 15 in the northeastern DRC. Tedros noted Uganda's prompt response, including border screening that detected cases from the DRC. Of the 19 confirmed cases, 14 originated from the DRC, and five are Ugandan nationals. Sadly, two individuals from the DRC have died. The current outbreak, the 17th for the DRC, is caused by the Bundibugyo Ebola strain, for which there is no specific vaccine or treatment. The WHO is supporting Uganda's response efforts alongside the Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention and other regional partners.
Former France defender Gaël Clichy believes Michael Olise has the talent to be France’s breakout star at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Olise, a Bayern Munich forward, is heading into his first World Cup with high expectations. Clichy, who worked with Olise during the 2024 Paris Olympics where France’s Under-23 team won a silver medal, compared Olise's potential impact to Kylian Mbappé’s breakthrough at the 2018 World Cup. Clichy stated that Olise has developed significantly since moving to Bayern Munich and is ready to showcase his talent globally. He added that if Olise performs at the level he has shown for Bayern Munich, he will be recognized as one of France's best players. Clichy also highlighted Rayan Cherki as another emerging talent from the Olympic squad who could make a major impact. With established stars and emerging talents, France is expected to be a strong contender for the 2026 World Cup.