Monday Uchenna Obaji¹ , Uyiose Fortress Ufuah², Ezinne Chinyere Anieto³, Ifeoma Blessing Umeh⁴, Omonyemen Joy Oboh⁵, Angus Nnamdi Oli¹

Abstract

Childhood immunization is one of the foremost and most efficient public health programs globally. However, Nigeria is still plagued with recurrent outbreaks of vaccine-preventable diseases. Experiences have shown that community pharmacies have the potential to complement existing primary healthcare services and expand access to vaccines. In this review, we focused on the possibility and potential impact of integrating community pharmacies into childhood immunization services in Nigeria. We conducted a narrative synthesis and drew vital information from published articles and literature on pharmacy-based immunization. The analysis focused on five important domains: current immunization practice in Nigeria, the role of the community pharmacies, challenges to immunization coverage, policy considerations, and expected impact on child health. Evidence from many countries has shown that pharmacies can effectively deliver vaccines when integrated into broader immunization programs. Community pharmacies can serve as an important extension of primary healthcare in childhood immunization in Nigeria. However, successful implementation requires robust policy design and training of pharmacists in pediatric vaccination