The Kogi State Government is targeting 1.9 million children for the Integrated Measles-Rubella, MR, for those between nine months and 15 years.
Launching the MR, combined with novel Oral Polio Virus, Human Papilloma Virus vaccination, and Routine Immunization, Gov. Ahmed Ododo said the campaign would run from Oct. 6 to Oct. 15.
The governor said the campaign’s key objectives is Immunising children against measles and rubella, strengthen their defence against polio virus resurgence, introduce HPV vaccine for girls aged nine to 14 years to prevent cervical cancer, and revitalising routine immunisation system.
“Routine immunisation is a powerful tool to end avoidable ailments and to preserve our state. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that every child is reached”.
He promised that the campaign will reach every ward and district across the state.
While calling on parents and caregivers to present their children for immunisation, he appreciated the support of Traditional rulers and religious leaders, urging them to continue sensitising their communities about the importance of vaccination.
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The governor emphasised that the campaign represents a commitment to life, change, and the well-being of future generations.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr Adeiza Abdulazeez, commended the governor’s leadership, noting that the revitalisation of the PHCs across the state has gained broad community acceptance.
Abdulazeez also lauded the contributions of religious scholars and community leaders in promoting public health awareness.
Earlier, Dr Musa Muazu, the Executive Director of the Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, said the state conducted microplanning, mobilised cold chain and logistics, and engaged social mobilisation teams.
Mu’azu urged parents, caregivers, and community leaders to ensure every eligible child is vaccinated, emphasizing that vaccines are safe, free, and save lives.
The executive director expressed gratitude to Ododo, commissioner for health, development partners, healthcare workers, and community leaders for their support.
In his goodwill message, Mr Abdulrazaq Ishola, who represented the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), praised Kogi for achieving 100 per cent coverage in previous immunisation rounds.
He noted that Ododo’s personal involvement in the launch, demonstrates genuine commitment to public health but appealed to him to consider the recruitment of additional frontline and auxiliary health workers to strengthen healthcare delivery in the state.
