EFFECT OF HEALTH SECTOR FUNDING ON IMMUNIZATION SERVICES: FINDINGS FROM NIGERIA’S FEDERAL CAPITAL TERRITORY

Abstract

Nigeria like other developing countries adopts routine immunization as a strategy to reduce the burden of preventable diseases but evidence suggests that coverage is inadequate. Adequate healthcare funding can improve the supply of vaccines, as well as ensure effective and efficient administration. The study aimed at exploring the impact of health sector funding on immunization services in Abuja (FCT), Nigeria. Methods: Following ethics approval from the National Assembly Management, a mixed methods approach underpinned data collection and analysis in the study. Secondary data from six FCT area councils, from 2010 to 2012 were reviewed using documentary analysis. Additionally, a piloted and validated cross sectional survey was designed to collect the data from 650 randomly selected members of the public between December 2014 and March 2015. Data collected included demographic details and responses on issues pertaining to immunization and access to healthcare. Descriptive and inferential statistics were applied using