Regional Analysis of Acceptance of COVID-19 Vaccines in Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Attempts at curbing the spread of SARSCoV-2 have resulted in formulation and adoption of COVID-19 protocols in different countries. To further prevent contracting the virus, many developed countries are administering COVID-19 vaccines to their citizens and residents while the developing countries are not left out. The Nigerian government began administering COVID-19 vaccines on March 9, 2021. This study therefore analysed the acceptance of COVID-19 vaccines across different states in Nigeria.Methods: The study utilised secondary data of COVID-19 vaccination in Nigeria. The dataset was obtained from OpenAFRICA, which was first created on September 1, 2021 and last updated in September 29, 2021. The data were statistically analysed and then mapped using the Geographic Information System.Results: The findings showed a very low level of acceptance of the full doses of COVID-19 vaccines vis-a-vis the population of each of the thirty-six (36) Nigerian States.Conclusion: We therefore conclude that the population responses to receiving COVID-19 vaccines is very low in Nigeria, which signals a high level of health risk and vulnerability to the virus.