Abstract:

This study examines the impact of stakeholder engagement and community participation on routine immunization programs in Adamawa State, Nigeria. Quantitative data were collected through structured questionnaires administered to 166 participants, including healthcare workers, community leaders, and program administrators. The sample size was determined using the Cochrane formula, considering a 20% non-response rate. The results showed that most participants (85.1%) perceived active engagement between health facilities and communities. Healthcare workers were recognized as crucial for education and vaccination services by 54.0% of participants, while community leaders were seen as important for advocacy by 58.4%. However, challenges included resource constraints (37.9%), communication difficulties (42.2%), and vaccine hesitancy (27.3%). To improve engagement, participants suggested enhancing communication (55.9%), forming partnerships (46.6%), and strengthening monitoring and evaluation (46.6%). About 59.6% of participants felt that there were no regular dialogue platforms among stakeholders. Therefore, this study recommended that enhancing communication, fostering collaboration and establishing regular coordination mechanisms are essential steps toward achieving higher immunization rates and better health outcomes.

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