Gov. Ahmed Ododo of Kogi, has launched an Integrated Measles-Rubella (MR) campaign, combined with novel Oral Polio Virus (nOPV), Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccination, and Routine Immunization (RI) system strengthening in the state.
Ododo, who inaugurated the campaign on Tuesday in Lokoja, said the campaign would run from Oct. 6 to 15, aims to protect over 1,988,371 children aged 9 months to 14 years.
The governor said the campaign’s key objectives is Immunising children against measles and rubella, strengthening defense against polio virus resurgence, Introducing HPV vaccine for girls aged 9-14 years to prevent cervical cancer, and revitalising Routine Immunisation (RI) system.
He said: “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 his administration would ensure the campaign reaches 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.
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 revitalization of PHCs across the state has gained broad community acceptance.
Abdulazeez also applauded the contributions of religious scholars and community leaders in promoting public health awareness.
Earlier, Dr Musa Muazu, the Executive Director, Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, said the state has 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 the Governor, 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 State for achieving 100 percent coverage in previous immunization rounds.
He noted that Governor Ododo’s personal involvement in the flag-off 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.