By Abah Benjamin Eneojoh, Lokoja
Kogi State Government has launched the 2025 Integrated Measles-Rubella, Polio, and HPV Immunization Campaign. This initiative, kicked off today in Lokoja by Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, seeks to shield children and adolescents statewide from diseases preventable by vaccines.
Governor Ododo stressed that this immunization effort represents a renewed commitment to preserving lives and fortifying primary healthcare development. He urged parents, guardians, and community leaders to endorse the campaign, assuring them that the vaccines are entirely free, safe, and vital for every eligible child.
In his words “We have put everything in place to ensure that no eligible child or adolescent is left out, whether in the cities or the remotest villages. I urge all parents and caregivers to make sure your children receive these vaccines. They are free, safe, and effective. When you vaccinate your child, you are protecting not just your family but the entire community” he said
According to Dr. Mu’azu Musa Omeiza, Executive Director of the Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, the campaign he said would reach out to 1.9 million children between 9 months and 14 years old, protecting them against Measles, Rubella, Polio, and HPV. He further highlighted that this initiative embodies a strategic, cost-effective, and evidence-based approach to safeguarding the state’s future generations.
Dr Muazu further noted that the programme is not just an immunization campaign, but a multi-layered public health strategy that is cost-effective, evidence-based, and designed for optimal reach and impact.
“This campaign comes at a critical time across the country and globally where we are witnessing rising cases of vaccine-preventable diseases due to immunity gaps worsened by disruptions in services during past years” he added.
The Governor expressed gratitude to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency Bola Ahmed Tinubu and his wife Senator Remi Tinubu and the partnering organizations and healthcare workers for their sustained support and dedication to enhancing the welfare of Kogi’s residents. He also encouraged parents to ensure their children receive these life-saving vaccines. Notably, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency commended Kogi State for achieving 100% immunization coverage and praised Governor Ododo’s commitment to public health.
This immunization campaign marks a crucial step toward eliminating vaccine-preventable diseases and protecting young girls from cervical cancer in Kogi State and the country at large.