Child health experts link Nigeria’s 162,000 annual pneumonia deaths to low immunisation and vaccine hesitancy. Malnutrition, air pollution, and delayed hospital visits worsen these cases. Poor immunisation coverage fuels the spread of pneumococcal pneumonia in children under five.
The Coordinating Minister of Health, Prof. Ali Pate, notes that 850,000 children die yearly from preventable illnesses. Of these, 280,000 newborns die from prematurity, while 162,000 succumb to pneumonia. Nigeria is not yet on track to meet the 2030 Sustainable Development Goal for under-five mortality.
UNICEF calls pneumonia the “forgotten killer,” responsible for 19% of under-five deaths in Nigeria. Malnourished children have weaker immune systems, making infections more deadly. Lack of exclusive breastfeeding further worsens the disease’s impact.
Paediatricians stress that overcrowding and poor ventilation increase infection risks. Delayed hospital visits, limited healthcare access, and a shortage of skilled personnel also contribute to high mortality. Antimicrobial resistance reduces antibiotic effectiveness, complicating treatment.
Education is crucial. Parents must recognise pneumonia symptoms like fast breathing, fever, vomiting, or loss of consciousness. Government, media, and professional societies must work together to spread accurate information.
Nutrition support, school feeding programmes, improved immunisation, and clean air initiatives can significantly lower pneumonia cases. Early intervention, vaccination, and community awareness remain key strategies to protect Nigeria’s children from this preventable disease.
