FG Flags Off National Immunisation Campaign, Targets 16 Million Children
The Federal Government has launched an integrated immunisation campaign aimed at vaccinating over 16 million Nigerian children against measles and other preventable diseases.
The campaign, officially flagged off in Abuja, is part of a broader national effort to eliminate measles by 2030.
It also includes vaccination against polio, the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and interventions for neglected tropical diseases, combining multiple public health initiatives under one exercise.
According to the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, the campaign targets children between nine months and 14 years, ensuring they are protected from measles and rubella. He said the exercise demonstrates the government’s renewed commitment to strengthening the country’s primary health care system and reducing child mortality through effective immunisation coverage.
“This campaign is not just about measles; it is an integrated approach to safeguard our children from several preventable diseases and ensure no child is left behind,” Pate said.
The minister noted that the government’s goal is to reach every eligible child in all participating states, while also boosting public awareness to counter misinformation about vaccines.
He commended traditional rulers, religious leaders, development partners, and health workers for supporting the initiative.
Reports indicate that the current phase of the campaign will cover selected states, with subsequent phases extending to other parts of the country in early 2026.
Vaccination points have been set up across schools, health centres, and community hubs, with teams mobilised to ensure wide coverage.
The World Health Organisation (WHO), UNICEF, and other international partners are providing technical and logistical support to ensure the campaign’s success.
Health experts say the integrated campaign will help close immunity gaps, reduce outbreaks, and strengthen Nigeria’s public health resilience.
