Victor Urhefe

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Author’s Note: This article explores the multifaceted implications of the Serum Institute of India’s (SII) success from a Nigerian perspective, emphasizing religious, cultural, and political contexts. It discusses the affordable and accessible vaccines provided by SII, their impact on Nigeria’s public health, and the diverse reactions to vaccination influenced by religious beliefs, cultural practices, and political dynamics. The article also suggests strategies for SII to effectively navigate these complexities, including engaging religious leaders, employing culturally sensitive communication, and collaborating with governmental authorities. It is important to note that this is an opinion piece and the perspectives and recommendations herein are subject to adjustments based on evolving circumstances and further insights.

~ Victor Urhefe, June 14, 2024

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Serum Institute of India (SII)

Since its founding by Dr. Cyrus Poonawalla in 1966, the Serum Institute of India (SII) has developed from a small experiment into a major player in the world of vaccine production. With a desire to guarantee that everyone, irrespective of financial situation, has access to life-saving vaccines, SII has remained true to its goal of providing high-quality, reasonably priced vaccines worldwide. The institute has grown to be the biggest vaccine producer in the world in terms of volume, driven by an unrelenting commitment to eradicating infectious illnesses and improving public health. Over the years, SII has manufactured approximately 1.5 billion vaccines annually, covering illnesses including polio, diphtheria, tetanus, Pertussis, Hib, BCG, r-Hepatitis B, Mumps, and measles. This is due to its unwavering pursuit of innovation and excellence. As the top biotechnology business in India, Serum Institute of India produces highly specialised biologicals that can save lives, such as vaccines, using state-of-the-art genetic and cell-based technologies, antisera, and other medical specialties.

One of SII’s greatest achievements is its important role in the COVID-19 epidemic. Collaborating with multinational organizations such as AstraZeneca, the institute manufactured millions of doses of the Covishield vaccine, which played a pivotal role in combating the virus in numerous low- and middle-income nations. The immunization gap in underserved areas has significantly decreased thanks to its effective production and delivery methods. This achievement demonstrates SII’s commitment to public health and embodies a legacy of resiliency, creativity, and unwavering determination to provide vaccines to every region of the globe.

Nigeria

Nigeria, also referred to as the “Giant of Africa,” is a nation rich in diverse political, religious, and cultural traditions. It is the most populated country in Africa and the ninth most populous worldwide, with a population of over 200 million. Nigerians are mainly divided along religious lines between Islam and Christianity, with Muslims being concentrated in the north and Christians in the south. This split in religion has an impact on social interactions, politics, and education, among other areas of life. A small percentage of people also follow indigenous religions, which are a reflection of the deeply ingrained cultural beliefs of the nation. Although there has occasionally been tension and conflict between various religious groups, their interactions have also promoted a special kind of coexistence and mutual impact in day-to-day living.

Nigeria is a linguistic and ethnic collage in terms of culture. There are more than 250 different ethnic groups in the nation, with Hausa-Fulani, Yoruba, and Igbo being the largest. The unique customs, dialects, and cultural practices of each ethnic group enrich Nigeria’s rich cultural legacy. This diversity is reflected in festivals, music, dance, and artwork from different regions, resulting in a vibrant cultural tapestry. The Yoruba, for example, are well known for their talking drums and ornate beadwork; the Hausa, for their leatherwork and horse festivities; and the Igbo, for their elaborate ceremonies and masquerade dances. Despite this diversity, Nigerians have a great sense of pride in their country and identity, which is frequently expressed through national celebrations and shared cultural experiences.

Nigeria is a federal country with 36 states and Abuja as the Federal Capital Territory. In addition to providing representation and governance that take into account the many interests and demands of the nation’s residents, this structure is meant to serve the country’s heterogeneous population. Nigeria has gone through several eras of government, including military dictatorships, colonial control, and the current democratic republic. Major political parties are frequently positioned along ethnic and regional lines, creating a dynamic political scene. Although this alignment occasionally makes things worse, it also makes sure that different groups are heard in the national conversation. Political variety is both a strength and a difficulty because it necessitates ongoing compromise and negotiation to uphold unity and promote growth.

Reaction to Vaccination

Nigeria’s response to vaccinations is as diverse as the country’s political, cultural, and religious environments. Misinformation and historical hostility have given rise to rare scepticism and opposition in the mostly Muslim north. Historical events, like the 2003–2004 polio vaccination boycott, demonstrate how strongly held religious and cultural beliefs can impact public health measures. The boycott was motivated by false worries about sterilisation and Western conspiracies. However, there has been a noticeable shift in opinions thanks to the combined efforts of religious leaders, governmental officials, and international organisations. Religiously sensitive campaigns have been crucial in demonstrating how culturally aware strategies can improve vaccination acceptance and uptake.

Nigeria’s many ethnic groups respond differently to immunisation campaigns, depending on their own cultures. In the South, where Christianity is the dominant religion, vaccination attitudes have typically been more positively influenced by community involvement and education. Yoruba and Igbo communities host lively cultural festivals and social events that serve as powerful forums for dispelling myths about vaccines and raising awareness of them. Politically, localised approaches that tackle particular area issues are made possible by the federal system. But political unpredictability and mistrust of the government can impede immunisation campaigns, therefore, strong cooperation between federal and state agencies is required to guarantee uniform and broad immunisation coverage. This complicated dance of political forces, cultural customs, and religious beliefs emphasises how important it is for Nigerian public health policies to be specific and sophisticated.

My thoughts on SII’s mission concerning Nigeria and what needs to be done. 

Nigeria’s aspirations in healthcare are well aligned with the purpose of the Serum Institute of India, which is to provide high-quality, reasonably priced vaccinations to every part of the world. SII’s approach needs to be both strategic and compassionate in a nation where public opinion and acceptance of health interventions are shaped by religious, cultural, and political factors. The accomplishment of their goal in Nigeria depends on a thorough comprehension of these many variables and the application of customised tactics that honor and involve local populations. What worked in the South may not work in the North.

First, it can be helpful to form connections with powerful religious figures. Through the inclusion of imams, pastors, and other traditional leaders in advocacy campaigns, SII can address issues related to religion and debunk falsehoods about immunizations. By acting as dependable role models, these leaders can persuade their followers to support vaccination. Cultural awareness is also very important. In order to craft engaging stories about vaccinations, SII should work with regional artists and cultural icons. Through storytelling, dance, and song, the advantages of vaccinations can be conveyed in a way that is firmly ingrained in Nigeria’s rich cultural legacy.

Finally, it is critical to engage closely with both the federal and state governments to promote cohesive and uniform messaging while addressing any potential political mistrust. Building strong, transparent cooperation with Nigerian health authorities will help to ensure that vaccines are distributed smoothly and increase public trust. SII may assist Nigeria move confidently towards greater public health and a brighter future by integrating its mission into the fabric of the country’s diverse community.

Sources:

1. Paden, John N., Religion and Political Culture in Kano. University of California Press, 1973.
2. Falola, Toyin. The history of Nigeria. Greenwood Publishing Group, 1999.
3. Achebe, Chinua. Things Fall Apart, Heinemann, 1958.
4. Falola, Toyin, and Heaton, Matthew M., A History of Nigeria, Cambridge University Press, 2008.
5. Ojo, Emmanuel O., “Federalism and the Search for National Integration in Nigeria.” African Journal of Political Science and International Relations, vol. 4, no. 2, 2009, pp. 38–46.
6. Diamond, Larry, and Plattner, Marc F.. Democratization in Africa: Progress and Retreat, JHU Press, 2010.
7. Falola, Toyin, and Heaton, Matthew M., A History of Nigeria. Cambridge University Press, 2008.