Strengthening Immunization in Bayelsa State | High-Level Advocacy & Stakeholder Engagement (2026)

From May 18–21, 2026, the AFENET-supported NSTOP team conducted a high-level advocacy and stakeholder engagement visit to Bayelsa State, Nigeria, aimed at strengthening immunization systems, improving vaccine uptake, and sustaining gains achieved through innovative health interventions. The advocacy team engaged key government stakeholders, including the Executive Secretary of the State Primary Health Care Board, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, and the Deputy Governor of Bayelsa State, Pastor (Hon.) Peter Pereotubo Akpe. Discussions focused on the achievements and sustainability of critical interventions, including the Electronic Malaria Vaccine Defaulter Registry (eMAVDER), vaccine uptake optimization activities, and strategies for increasing state ownership and long-term investment in immunization programs. Key highlights include: • Successful scale-up of the Electronic Malaria Vaccine Defaulter Registry (eMAVDER) • Introduction of a WhatsApp chatbot for efficient defaulter tracking and follow-up • Vaccination of approximately 18,000 children through outreach optimization activities • Expanded reach to zero-dose and underserved children in hard-to-reach communities • Supportive supervision and mentorship of outreach teams • Engagement with Zipline Technologies to strengthen vaccine delivery logistics • Advocacy for sustainable financing and legislative support for healthcare interventions This documentary showcases the power of collaboration between government, partners, healthcare workers, and communities in advancing immunization coverage and protecting children against vaccine-preventable diseases. #AFENET #NSTOP #BayelsaState #Immunization #PublicHealth #Vaccines #eMAVDER #Healthcare #ZeroDoseChildren #HealthSystemsStrengthening #Nigeria