From Rashidat Suleiman,Minna
In a renewed effort to strengthen disease prevention and protect future generations, the Niger State Government has engaged journalists and other key stakeholders ahead of the rollout of the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccination campaign.
Governor Mohammed Umaru Bago, who officially endorsed the campaign in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), the World Health Organization (WHO), GAVI, and other development partners, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving child health and well-being across the state.
He underscored the dangers posed by measles and rubella, describing the MR vaccine as safe, effective, and crucial in preventing both diseases. The governor assured that the vaccine will be made available in all healthcare facilities across Niger State.
Speaking at a media dialogue organized in Minna by the Niger State Government in partnership with UNICEF, WHO, and other partners, the Incident Manager of the State Emergency Operations Centre (EOC), Dr. Fatima Ibrahim, described the introduction of the MR vaccine as a significant milestone in public health.
Dr. Ibrahim noted that Nigeria is at a pivotal stage as it integrates the MR vaccine into its national immunization schedule. She highlighted the severe implications of rubella during pregnancy, which can cause lifelong complications for infants. “With the introduction of the Measles-Rubella vaccine, we now have an additional, powerful tool to combat these diseases and safeguard future generations,” she said.
She explained that the vaccine is safe, government-funded, and free for all eligible children between the ages of nine months and 14 years. Dr. Ibrahim also emphasized the vital role of the media in driving awareness and sensitization at the community level.
Also speaking, the Chief of UNICEF Kaduna Field Office, Dr. Gerida Birukila, represented by UNICEF Health Specialist Dr. Ahmed Tsofo, called on journalists to use their platforms to dispel myths and misinformation about vaccination.
“Your voice can break down myths and misinformation. Your platforms can build trust in public health and make vaccination not just a medical necessity but a parental duty and a community value proudly upheld,” Dr. Birukila said.
She urged the media to mobilize parents, caregivers, and communities to ensure full participation during immunization days, framing vaccination as both an act of protection and care. She also appealed to journalists to amplify accurate information, assuring that vaccines are safe, effective, fully funded by government, and provided at no cost to families.