The Niger State Government has launched a massive measles-rubella vaccination campaign aimed at reaching no fewer than three million children across the state.
The campaign, which commenced on Monday, was announced by the Ministry of Primary Healthcare during a media parley held in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the World Health Organisation (WHO), and other development partners.
Speaking at the event, Governor Mohammed Bago, represented by the Incident Manager of the State Polio Emergency Operation Centre, Dr. Fatima Ibrahim, described the vaccination exercise as a crucial step toward safeguarding the health of children and reducing preventable deaths.
He lamented that some parts of Nigeria still record zero vaccination coverage, emphasizing that measles and rubella remain major causes of child mortality, particularly in areas with poor immunisation rates.
“Measles and Rubella are two major killers of children. They spread easily where vaccination is not given. This is why my administration is ensuring the vaccines are available in all healthcare facilities across Niger State,” the governor said.
Bago reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to making child health a top priority, stressing that the campaign marks a major step toward integrating the measles-rubella vaccine into Nigeria’s national immunisation schedule.
He added that rubella, also known as German measles, poses grave risks during pregnancy, potentially leading to severe complications for unborn children.
“With this new vaccine, we have another powerful tool to protect our children and future generations,” he added.
Dr. Ibrahim noted that the measles-rubella vaccine is completely safe, government-funded, and free for all eligible children aged nine months to 14 years.
Also speaking at the event, UNICEF’s Chief of Kaduna Field Office, Dr. Gerida Birukila, represented by Health Specialist Dr. Ahmed Tsofo, underscored the role of the media in promoting accurate information about vaccination.
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“Your voices can help dispel myths and misinformation. Through your platforms, vaccination can be seen not only as a medical necessity but also as a community responsibility,” she said.
Dr. Birukila urged journalists to use their platforms to educate parents, caregivers, and communities about the importance of immunisation while countering false claims with verified facts and relatable information.
She further appealed to the media to help ensure that immunisation days are viewed as vital opportunities for child protection and community care.
The ongoing campaign is part of national efforts to curb vaccine-preventable diseases and strengthen Nigeria’s public health system.