On Tuesday, the United States donated 10,000 doses of the Jynneos vaccine to Nigeria.
Jynneos, approved by the Food and Drug Administration, is used to prevent smallpox and mpox in adults aged 18 and older who are at risk of mpox infection.
During the official handover ceremony in Abuja, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, expressed gratitude to the US government for the donation. Represented by Permanent Secretary Daju Kachollom, Pate said the Federal Government’s commitment to improving public health.
“This donation represents continued cooperation and collaboration over the years,” Pate said. “The Federal Ministry of Health values the importance of a healthy nation, and our policies and partnerships aim to ensure the well-being of our citizens.”
Pate emphasized the significance of health matters and praised the efforts of the health sector’s leaders, including Dr. Tunji Alausa, Minister of State for Health. “We appreciate the 10,000 doses and look forward to more support,” he added, acknowledging the contributions of development partners such as USAID, PEPFAR, WHO, UNICEF, and other UN organizations.
The Minister concluded by noting the importance of addressing diseases that pose public health concerns and thanked all involved for their support.