Governors back use of AstraZeneca vaccine amid safety concerns

The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) has backed the continued use of the Oxford/AstraZeneca COVID-19 vaccine, amid growing concerns about its safety.

In a meeting presided over Kayode Fayemi, governor of Ekiti state, they reiterated the safety of the vaccine while urging Nigerians to get vaccinated.

According to a communique signed by Fayemi, the governors’ decision to support the vaccine was reached after the recommendation of Oyewale Tomori, chairman of the COVID-19 Technical advisory group (CTAG)

“The Forum’s COVID-19 Technical Advisory Group (CTAG) led by Professor Oyewale Tomori briefed members on the status of the COVID-19 vaccine roll out across the States including the increasing concerns of the public on the safety of AstraZeneca vaccines,” the communique said.

“CTAG recommended that Nigeria should continue to vaccinate all eligible persons with the AstraZeneca vaccine in line with the latest WHO recommendations as available evidence, including findings from research in which some CTAG members are involved, shows that the AstraZeneca vaccine is safe.

“Governors reiterated their belief in the safety of the Astra Zeneca vaccines and commit to continuously encourage uptake of the vaccines by all eligible persons in their States. Governors also encourage the public to report any adverse events noticed following COVID-19 vaccination.”

Over the past few weeks, several European countries have suspended the use of the AstraZeneca vaccine over a possible link to blood clots.

Nigeria is currently administering the AstraZeneca vaccine, which was procured through the UN-led COVAX facility.

Meanwhile, the World Health Organisation (WHO) has also backed the continued use of the AstraZeneca vaccine.