The Health Belief Model Perspective on COVID-19 Vaccine Acceptance and Hesitancy in Nigeria: A Scoping Review

Abstract

Background Nigeria’s COVID-19 vaccination campaign has made tremendous progress. Yet, there remains a gap in understanding the determinants of vaccine acceptance and hesitancy in Nigeria, particularly when viewed through established health behavior models. Due to the possibility of future health crises, gaining insights into these determinants is imperative.Objective This study aims to review the factors influencing COVID-19 vaccine acceptance and hesitancy in Nigeria using the Health Belief Model (HBM).Methods A scoping review of relevant articles published on PubMed and Scopus was conducted following an article search from 28th August to 4th September 2022. Articles from 2020 onwards, using quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods, were considered. Eligibility was restricted to peer-reviewed articles in English, focused on the Nigerian context, and addressing COVID-19 vaccine hesitancy, willingness, or acceptance, regardless of the study design. Reference lists of identified articles were also scrutinized for pertinent studies.Results This study revealed that in Nigeria, lower perceived susceptibility and severity of COVID-19 were linked to vaccine hesitancy. Major barriers to vaccination included mistrust, religious beliefs, and concerns about long-term effects. Social cues, particularly media and advice from health professionals, greatly influenced vaccine acceptance. Healthcare workers exhibited higher vaccine acceptance due to increased self-efficacy. Modifying factors affecting hesitancy included geographic location, age, gender, and socioeconomic status.Conclusions Our findings demonstrate the significance of the HBM in identifying factors capable of influencing COVID-19 vaccine reluctance. Utilizing HBM insights can guide targeted interventions and campaigns to increase vaccine adoption, thereby reducing hesitancy and promoting a safer, healthier society.