Vaccine our priority in COVID-19 campaign ― Osinbajo

THE Federal Government has revealed its intension to examine every possible option in the development and distribution of a vaccine against the COVID-19 disease, and the health and safety of Nigerian citizens is the priority of the Buhari administration in that matter. This was disclosed earlier today by Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, during a virtual meeting with representatives of the BNT162 COVID-19 vaccine candidate on the progress of the vaccine development around the world, including Africa.

  The meeting was attended by the Health Minister, Dr. Osagie Ehanire and the Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Faisal Shuaib with representatives of Pfizer and Biotech, the international pharmaceutical firms promoting the BNT162 vaccine candidate.

  According to Professor Osinbajo, the interaction between the FG and the promoters of the vaccine candidate “is an important conversation and it is important for us that we are prioritised as the largest country in Africa in the distribution of the best COVID-19 vaccine when it’s eventually ready.

  “Our priority is the health of Nigerian citizens. We continue to engage and intend to look at every possible option -from all manufacturers- of a good vaccine. We want to do the very best for our people in this regard,” he said.

  Osinbajo asked several questions about the COVID-19 vaccine candidate including how quickly can Nigeria get the vaccine once it’s safely ready. 

Responding, Pfizer Country Manager and Representative in Africa, Subair Olayinka disclosed that Nigeria will be a priority for the vaccine supply to Africa.