Korede Abdullah in Lagos
The Wife of the Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, has called on residents across the state to intensify efforts in promoting the importance of the Measles-Rubella (M-R) vaccine.
She made this appeal during a sensitization programme held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Abeokuta, targeting Local Government Chairmen’s wives and key stakeholders.
Mrs. Abiodun emphasized the need to take the campaign to grassroots communities to help safeguard the health and future of Nigerian children.
Citing alarming global statistics, Mrs. Abiodun stated, “According to WHO, measles remains one of the leading causes of death among under-five children in Nigeria. In 2023 alone, the world witnessed over 10 million cases and a staggering 136,000 deaths.”
She decried the persistence of outbreaks in Nigeria, lamenting that, “It is hard to imagine that more than 60 years after the measles vaccine was first introduced, we are still experiencing outbreaks in our country.”
She also warned of the silent but severe threat posed by rubella, which can result in congenital rubella syndrome, causing irreversible conditions such as blindness, deafness, and neurological disorders.
Highlighting the benefits of the upcoming vaccine rollout scheduled for October, Mrs. Abiodun noted that the combined M-R vaccine could prevent 2.8 million deaths in Nigeria and significantly reduce the global burden of these diseases.
“The M-R vaccine is not only a life-saving intervention, but also an investment in the future of our children,” she said, urging mothers and community leaders to prioritize children’s health.
Supporting this message, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Tayo Lawal, stressed the importance of public education and engagement, advocating for workshops, informational pamphlets, and social media campaigns to spread awareness.
