COVID-19:Nigerian Scientists Produce Two Local Vaccines-FG 

The Federal Government has said that Nigerian Scientists have produced at least two  local COVID-19 vaccines.

The  vaccines are currently  awaiting clinical trials and certification before it will become useful in the fight against Covid-19,according to Secretary to the Government of the Federation and Chairman of the Presidential Task Force on COVID- 19, Boss Mustapha

Mustapha,who spoke in Abuja said the feat was a significant milestone and that the research was a welcome development that will open a new vista in scientific breakthrough and will boost the morale and image of the medical industry in the country.

He implored relevant agencies to provide the required support and enabling environment for smooth conduct of the remaining protocols for the certification of these vaccines with a view to encouraging and motivating other researchers.

He recalled that  a year ago,total lockdown was declared by the government in some parts of the country due to Coronavirus pandemic that hit us but the socio-economic impact on us cannot be underestimated.

“Many people lost their livelihood and many people lost loved ones. May their souls find rest with their maker.

“Yesterday again, Nigeria recorded the lowest number of cases so far this year. We have also seen a decline in cases in the high burden countries around the African region. This does not call for us to lower our guards as the virus is still potent and virulent.   This is the right time to adhere to the full compliance of the NPIs and be vaccinated.

“Although, situations around the world now show some increase in cases, especially in the Americas, Europe and East Mediterranean regions, which suggests that they could be a third wave, further affirms that non-compliance with COVID-19 regulations and growing evidence of vaccine hesitancy could endanger millions of lives”.

He gave an impression that the PTF was having difficulty sensitizing Nigerians on the efficacy of the vaccines being deployed, adding that last Friday, there was a sensitization meeting of the Muslim scholars and Imams on COVID-19 vaccination rollout organised by the NPHCDA in collaboration with the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA) where they urged the leadership of the Muslim Ummah to mobilize and educate their adherents to take the vaccines, because it is safe and efficacious.

According to the SGF,  so far in as much as our record shows that over 7million persons have been vaccinated in Africa. A platform will be created in the course of the week to show Nigerians every information relating to the management of vaccines and of course, the pandemic.