Nigeria’s national immunisation campaign officially begins in Abuja. Gates Foundation Nigeria has renewed its call for stronger collaboration between the government, partners, and communities. To ensure that more than two million unvaccinated Nigerian children are reached and protected.
The campaign, flagged off on Monday at the Presidential Villa by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu. It marks the launch of the National Integrated Measles-Rubella and Polio Immunisation Campaign. This historic exercise aims to improve routine immunisation coverage nationwide, which currently stands at about 60 percent. It is expected to reach over 106 million children across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
Speaking at the event, Yusuf Yusufari, Deputy Director of Immunisation and Disease Control at the Gates Foundation, reaffirmed the organisation’s long-standing commitment to eradicating preventable diseases in Nigeria. He highlighted Nigeria’s success in eliminating wild polio as a testament to the nation’s resilience and global leadership in public health.
Yusufari revealed that the new campaign introduces additional vaccines. Including pneumococcal, rotavirus, HPV, and the measles-rubella combination vaccine, which protects against two deadly diseases at once. He stressed that closing the gap among zero-dose children. Those who have never received any vaccines remains a top priority.
According to him, the integrated approach also provides families in select states with malaria nets, deworming tablets, and other essential health services. Ensuring efficient use of resources and improved trust in healthcare delivery.
The Gates Foundation reaffirmed that success depends on unity and swift action. “If we succeed, Nigeria will not only protect its children but also inspire the world with what is possible. Together, we must act with urgency, unity, and determination to ensure no child is left behind,” Yusufari concluded.
