TheCable

President Muhammadu Buhari has urged Nigerians to present themselves for COVID-19 vaccination.

Buhari spoke on Saturday in Abuja, after receiving a dose of the AstraZenecea COVID-19 vaccine alongside Vice President Yemi Osinbajo.

The president recommended the vaccine to all eligible Nigerians, saying it is an effective protection against the virus.

“Today, as a demonstration of leadership and faith in the safety and efficacy of the vaccines, I have received my first jab and I wish to commend it to all eligible Nigerians, to do the same so that we can be protected from the virus,” he said.

“I similarly urge all eligible Nigerians to present themselves and be vaccinated in accordance with the order of priority already mapped out,at the various authorized designated centres.”

Buhari called on state governments, traditional and religious leaders to take the lead in the mobilisation activities in their respective communities.

“I urge all state governments, traditional and religious leaders, to take the lead in   the mobilization effort within their   environment and spheres of influence. The vaccine offers hope for a safe country, free of coronavirus,” he said.

“I wish to acknowledge and commend   the support of governments, our   donors, development partners, the   private sector, traditional and religious leaders as well as critical stakeholders who have supported Nigeria thus far.”

On Friday, Nigeria commenced its COVID-19 vaccination with frontline health workers in Abuja.