Niger State Intensifies Fight Against Measles, Rubella and Polio with Free Vaccination Drive

Niger State Intensifies Fight Against Measles, Rubella and Polio with Free Vaccination Drive

 

 

 

In a decisive move to curb the prevalence of preventable childhood diseases, the Niger State Ministry of Primary Healthcare has launched an extensive advocacy and sensitisation campaign across the Kontagora and Kagara Emirates. The initiative precedes the Integrated Measles-Rubella Vaccine Introduction and Polio Campaign (IMPACT), a programme funded by the World Bank.

 

Addressing stakeholders at a recent palace event, Dr Mohammed Gana, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, underscored the importance of equipping communities with adequate information ahead of the immunisation exercise. He affirmed that the Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago-led administration remains committed to proactive and preventive public health interventions.

 

Hamza Tijani, Project Manager of IMPACT, explained that the campaign aims to achieve comprehensive immunisation coverage for eligible children, protecting them against measles, rubella, and polio. “This initiative is critical in reducing morbidity and mortality associated with these diseases and in building healthier communities,” he said.

 

Highlighting the severity of measles and rubella, Dr Junaidu Innuwa and Dr Hauwa Nnatako noted the effectiveness of the vaccines and confirmed that all doses would be administered free of charge. They hailed the IMPACT project as a transformative effort in Nigeria’s broader disease elimination strategy.

 

Traditional rulers, including the Sarkin Sudan of Kontagora, His Royal Highness Alhaji Muhammadu Bara Muazu II, and the Emir of Kagara, Mallam Ahmed Garba Gunna Attahiru II, pledged their support, promising to mobilise their subjects to ensure maximum participation in the campaign.

 

The Ministry has urged all parents and guardians in Niger State to embrace the programme and ensure that their children benefit from this vital health intervention.