The Federal Government on Monday officially launched a nationwide immunisation campaign targeting measles, polio, Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and other neglected tropical diseases, reaffirming its commitment to strengthening public health and eradicating vaccine-preventable illnesses.
The flag-off ceremony took place at the Banquet Hall of the State House in Abuja, with top government officials, traditional rulers, religious leaders, and international health partners in attendance.
The comprehensive campaign aims to eliminate measles in Nigeria by 2030 through improved routine immunisation, strengthened disease surveillance, rapid outbreak response, and the integration of measles and rubella initiatives into the primary healthcare system.
According to health authorities, the exercise targets 16 million children across the country, particularly those between the ages of nine and 14, who will receive the Measles-Rubella vaccine as part of the integrated effort.
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Prominent national and community figures graced the event, including the Sultan of Sokoto, His Eminence Sa’ad Abubakar; the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi; and the Archbishop of Abuja, Ignatius Kaigama.
Representatives from international development partners also pledged continued collaboration with the Nigerian government to strengthen immunisation coverage and disease prevention.
Officials emphasized that the multi-disease approach would help close immunity gaps, protect vulnerable populations, and align Nigeria’s public health strategy with global targets for disease elimination.
The campaign is expected to run concurrently across all states, marking a significant step toward building a healthier, more resilient population and ensuring no child is left behind in the country’s immunisation drive.