Major boost for health systems as FG targets underserved communities through one of Gavi’s largest-ever investments
In a decisive move to tackle immunization gaps and strengthen its healthcare delivery system, the Federal Government of Nigeria has secured a $191 million grant from Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, under the Health Systems Strengthening 3 (HSS3) initiative.
The funding will target 1.8 million zero-dose children—those who have never received any routine immunizations—across Nigeria, with a goal of increasing national immunization coverage to 84% by 2028.
Speaking during the launch of the HSS3 Grant in Abuja, Dr. Alex de Jonquières, Gavi’s Director of Health Systems and Immunisation Strengthening, emphasized the grant’s focus on expanding access in underserved regions. He noted that 80% of the funds will go directly to state governments, while over 10% will support civil society organizations working at the grassroots.
“This is one of Gavi’s largest grants globally, and it reflects our deep commitment to Nigeria’s immunisation and health outcomes,” Dr. Jonquières said.
Since 2000, Gavi has invested over $2.4 billion in Nigeria, supporting initiatives that have already seen the renovation of 493 primary healthcare centres, recruitment of 3,683 health workers, and procurement of cold chain equipment and logistics vehicles to support vaccine delivery nationwide.
Despite progress, Dr. Jonquières acknowledged that Nigeria still bears the highest global burden of zero-dose children, urging for greater domestic investment and stronger accountability mechanisms to sustain momentum.
Looking ahead, Gavi is also committing an additional $100 million to fund a nationwide measles-rubella campaign slated for 2025, further aligning with Nigeria’s broader Sector-Wide Approach (SWAp) reforms to ensure long-term improvements in child health.
Representatives of major development partners echoed strong support during the launch:
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Dr. Walter Mulombo, WHO’s Country Representative, stressed governance and transparency as key pillars for effective health system strengthening and praised Nigeria’s reforms under SWAp.
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Ms. Cristian Munduate, UNICEF Nigeria Representative, called for enhanced government-private sector partnerships, expansion of the Basic Health Care Provision Fund (BHCPF), and greater investment in healthcare worker training, digital health innovations, and resource transparency.
The HSS3 grant is expected to not only bridge long-standing gaps in immunisation coverage but also drive inclusive healthcare delivery, especially for vulnerable and remote populations.