Korede Abdullah in Lagos
The First Lady of Delta State and founder of the You Matter Charity Foundation, Her Excellency Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, has officially launched the Measles-Rubella Vaccine (MRV) advocacy rollout in Delta State.
Speaking during the event at Unity Hall, Government House in Asaba, she described the initiative as a vital step in curbing childhood diseases.
“This initiative by the Nigeria Governors’ Spouses Forum is indeed a welcome development and quite commendable,” she said, adding that the program aims to educate mothers and caregivers on vaccine efficacy to ensure all children are protected.
Emphasizing the administration’s dedication to child health, Deaconess Oborevwori highlighted the goal of reaching underserved communities to prevent complications like blindness, brain damage, and death.
“The MORE agenda of this administration under the leadership of our Governor, my husband, is committed to the well-being of all Deltans,” she stated, urging parents to utilize the free vaccination services.
She also made a strong appeal to traditional rulers, religious leaders, and stakeholders to champion the campaign: “I will also like to make a passionate appeal to our traditional rulers, religious leaders, strategic stakeholders, donor agencies, and partners to be at the forefront.”
Health Commissioner Hon. Joseph Onojaeme stressed the urgency of vaccination, describing measles and rubella as highly infectious with potentially severe consequences. He assured that the vaccine is safe, free, and available at 241 health centers for children aged 9 to 15.
Echoing the call for collective action, WHO’s Dr. Husseini Imoisule stated, “No child should be left behind,” while Dr. Onyi T. Owa-Nwabuzo of MWAN Delta projected that the campaign could prevent 2.8 million child deaths in Nigeria by 2026.
The event drew wide support from partners including UNICEF, C-WINs, and health experts, all calling for widespread awareness and coverage.
