The Federal Government has begun distributing 1,653 solar-powered cold chain units to boost vaccine storage nationwide.
NPHCDA said the $11m initiative ensures every region benefits, with UNICEF and WHO support.
The Federal Government has commenced the distribution of 1,653 solar-powered cold chain units, valued at approximately $11 million, aimed at enhancing vaccine storage and immunization efforts throughout Nigeria. The Northwest and Northcentral regions are the first to receive these units.
Dr. Muyi Aina, Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), announced the rollout in Abuja on Wednesday, noting that the initiative is part of President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes primary healthcare and universal vaccine access.
Under the allocation plan, the Northwest will receive 448 units, Northcentral 308, Southwest 343, South-South 221, Southeast 205, and the Northeast 128, ensuring every state and the Federal Capital Territory benefits. Aina explained that more than half of the equipment (53 per cent) would be deployed to northern states, while the remaining 47 per cent would be allocated to the south.
The first batch of 525 refrigerators has already arrived in Abuja, while the remaining units are being dispatched nationwide. Each unit comes with spare parts, a 10-year maintenance plan, and temperature monitoring devices to guarantee reliability.
UNICEF, WHO, and Gavi are supporting the project, describing the solar cold chain equipment as a game-changer for Nigeria’s immunization supply system. UNICEF’s Chief of Health, Dr. Maharajan Muthu, said the deployment would ensure the safe storage of vaccines and temperature-sensitive medicines, thereby extending access to underserved communities. He emphasized the importance of ongoing investment in asset tracking, vaccine stock management, and sustainable financing.
WHO Country Representative in Nigeria, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, highlighted that the initiative aligns with the global Immunization Agenda 2030, which prioritizes equitable vaccine access and stronger integration into primary healthcare. He added that leveraging solar energy would maintain vaccine potency, reduce wastage, and promote environmental sustainability.
The Federal Government stated that the investment, which includes 1,653 refrigerators, 165 spare part kits, and temperature recorders, reflects a renewed commitment to immunisation as a cornerstone of Nigeria’s healthcare system.
