AFENET boosts zero-dose children in Nigeria’s Bauchi State

Bauchi State is among the states with high burden of zero-dose children in Nigeria, with 13 out of its 20 LGAs classified as zero-dose areas. AFENET led a rapid assessment of zero-dose children in Bauchi, supporting the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA)’s efforts to identify barriers affecting routine immunization uptake. Alongside findings from the LGA-level Multiple Indicator Cluster Survey (MICS) pilot-conducted in Bauchi with technical and financial support from the U.S. CDC-these insights helped the state map priority areas and tailored its interventions to focus on the priority areas. Thanks to the combined interventions of AFENET staff and partners, following that Bauchi state improved it’s Penta 1 coverage from 35.3% in 2016 (MICS) to 42.3% in 2021 (MICS), and further to 58% in the 2024 NDHS.

The NSTOP Routine immunization thematic trainings delivered in Bauchi have been described as well-structured, informative, and impactful capacity-building initiatives. Because these trainings are often followed by post-training assignments and activities, participants retain knowledge better and apply it to enhance their service delivery skills. Over time, AFENET staff at the LGA level have built strong mentoring capabilities, effectively supporting frontline health workers through hands-on supervision and guidance.