COVID 19 VACCINES: THE PERCEPTION OF NIGERIANS ON THE EXISTENCE OF THE VIRUS, RELIABILITY OF THE VACCINES AND THE WILLINGNESS TO GET VACCINATED (A CASE STUDY OF MINNA METROPOLIS)

Abstract

This study investigated Nigerian perception of COVID-19 on the existence of the virus, reliability of vaccines and willingness to get vaccinated against study of Minna metropolis. The study was conducted electronically via Google form questionnaires sent out to various platforms to various stakeholders with a total of 742 respondents; Male: 447 (60.2%), Female: 295 (39.8%) Age range: 18 – 35: (89.8%), 36 – 60: 50 (6.7%), 60 and above: (2.2%), Under 18: (1.3%). The following fundamental question were asked for analysis and generalization of the study: Awareness of respondents about the ongoing vaccination, Have you been vaccinated? Does vaccination go against your religious beliefs? Do you feel there is a need to be vaccinated against COVID 19? Do you feel the vaccines are safe for Nigerians? Do you think there was adequate sensitization and public awareness before the vaccination exercise? What can be done for the vaccination to gain general acceptability? Why do you think people are hesitant about getting vaccination? Suggest what you think can be done to improve the COVID - 19 vaccinations exercise in Nigeria. The study revealed that lack of proper awareness of COVID-19 and the vaccination program, hesitancy by a significant portion due to concerns about vaccine safety and distrust in the government. The study suggestion to increase vaccine acceptance, respondents include; government reassurance via clear communication on vaccine safety and effectiveness, increased funding: to support the vaccination program, mass education: extensive public awareness campaigns and religious leader involvement: encouraging vaccination within religious communities. Overall, the study highlights the need for strong public health communication strategies to address concerns and build trust in the COVID-19 vaccination program in Nigeria.