In an effort to continue increasing routine immunization and retention rates in Kaduna State, His Royal Highness, the Emir of Zazzau, Ambassador Mallam Ahmed Nuhu Bamalli along with New Incentives All Babies Are Equal (NI-ABAE) launched the All Babies Livelihood Grant program addition, offering ₦5,000 to caregivers who complete their child's vaccination schedule.

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The flag-off ceremony took place at the Tukur-Tukur Primary Health Center (PHC) in Zaria, organized by the Kaduna State Primary Health Care Development Agency (KSPHCDA) with support from NI-ABAE. The event was graced by the Executive Secretary and Directors of the KSPHCDA, district heads, and community leaders, among others.

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In his opening remarks, Mallam Ibrahim Hamza Ikara, Director of Disease Control and Immunization, representing the Executive Secretary of the KSPHCDA emphasized the reach of the NI-ABAE program across six Local Government Areas and over 2,100 settlements in Kaduna State, many of which fall under the Zazzau Emirate.

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"We take pride in this, which is why we decided to flag off the Livelihood Grant of an additional ₦5,000 to caregivers who completed their vaccination here in Zaria," said Ikara.

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Ikara noted that many caregivers are too busy to take their children for immunizations.

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"Our caregivers have many responsibilities. Some are so occupied that they do not have the opportunity to take their children for immunizations. That's why NI-ABAE has stepped in to provide support to these caregivers, ensuring their children are vaccinated," he said.

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Over a 15-month period, a mother receives ₦1,000 for each of the six visits required for her child to complete the immunization schedule, totaling ₦6,000. “The ₦1,000 is given to caregivers per visit as a transportation allowance, not a payment for immunization,” emphasized Mubarak Bawa, New Incentives’ Operations Coordinator, who was also at the launch.  With the new Livelihood Grant addition, caregivers receive an additional lump sum of ₦5,000 upon completing their child's immunization, bringing the total amount to ₦11,000. This grant aims to help caregivers start or strengthen their businesses and better care for their children.

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The Emir of Zazzau expressed his joy at this development, thanking New Incentives and wishing the organization continued success. He urged the program's expansion to cover the remaining LGAs of Kaduna State. He also called on community leaders, including religious scholars, to continue educating the public on the importance of health and vaccinating children against deadly diseases, advising clergy to consult experts when in doubt about vaccination matters.

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Some caregivers who received the ₦5,000 Livelihood Grant at the event expressed their delight and committed to encouraging others to continue bringing their children for immunization, highlighting the long-term health benefits.