An evaluation of a multi-partner approach to increase routine immunization coverage in six northern Nigerian States

Abstract

Abstract Background Global health partnerships are increasingly being used to improve coordination, strengthen health systems, and incentivize government commitment for public health programs. From 2012 to 2022, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF) and Aliko Dangote Foundation (ADF) forged Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) partnership agreements with six northern state governments to strengthen routine immunization (RI) systems and sustainably increase immunization coverage. This mixed methods evaluation describes the RI MoUs contribution to improving program performance, strengthening capacity and government financial commitment as well as towards increasing immunization coverage. Methods Drawing from stakeholder interviews and a desk review, we describe the MoU inputs and processes and adherence to design. We assess the extent to which the program achieved its objectives as well as the benefits and challenges by drawing from a health facility assessment, client exit interview and qualitative interviews with service providers, community leaders and program participants. Finally, we assess the overall impact of the MoU by evaluating trends in immunization coverage rates. Results We found the RI MoUs across the six states to be mostly successful in strengthening health systems, improving accountability and coordination, and increasing the utilization of services and financing for RI. Across all six states, pentavalent 3 vaccine coverage increased from 2011 to 2021 and in some states, the gains were substantial. For example, in Yobe, vaccination coverage increased from 10% in 2011 to nearly 60% in 2021. However, in Sokoto, the change was minimal increasing from only 4% in 2011 to nearly 8% in 2021. However, evaluation findings indicate that issues pertaining to human resources for health, insecurity that inhibits supportive supervision and vaccine logistics as well as harmful socio-cultural norms remain a persistent challenge in the states. There is also a need for a rigorous monitoring and evaluation plan with well-defined measures collected prior to and throughout implementation. Conclusion Introducing a multi-partner approach grounded in a MoU agreement provides a promising approach to addressing health system challenges that confront RI programs.