FACTORS AFFECTING IMMUNIZATION COVERAGE AND PROGRAMME IMPLEMENTATION IN BAUCHI METROPOLIS

This study assessed the factors influencing the implementation of immunization programmes in Bauchi Metropolis, Nigeria. The specific objectives were to identify the factors affecting programme implementation and to determine ways to improve immunization coverage. A descriptive survey design was employed, targeting a population of 6,427 mothers and caregivers, from which 361 respondents were selected using simple random sampling. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire validated by three experts, and reliability was confirmed via test-retest, yielding a coefficient of 0.84. Mean statistics were used to analyze responses to the research questions. Findings revealed multiple factors hindering effective immunization programme implementation, including poor awareness, low literacy levels, and negative perceptions regarding routine immunization. Based on these results, the study recommends that government agencies re-strategize awareness campaigns, enhance collaboration between the Ministry of Education and the Agency for Mass Education to improve literacy, establish convenient adult education classes for mothers, and allocate additional resources to promote girl-child education. These interventions are expected to strengthen the implementation and effectiveness of immunization programmes in Bauchi Metropolis.