LOKOJA, Nigeria — UNICEF and the Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency (KSPHCDA) have urged stakeholders to intensify mobilisation ahead of the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccination campaign scheduled for October 4–13 across the state.
The call was made during a one-day stakeholders’ meeting in Lokoja, organised by KSPHCDA in collaboration with UNICEF.
The campaign aims to protect children against measles and rubella, two highly contagious viral illnesses that can lead to severe complications, including brain damage, blindness, and death.
Speaking at the event yesterday, UNICEF’s Health, Social and Behavioural Change Consultant, Ambassador Abdulrahman Hudu, stressed that vaccination remains the only effective measure against the disease.
“The MR vaccine is 95 per cent effective and strongly recommended by the World Health Organisation. By supporting this campaign, we protect children, reduce outbreaks, and strengthen community well-being,” Hudu stated.
He further emphasised the importance of social and behavioural change in driving public participation, urging stakeholders to prioritise awareness campaigns, policy advocacy, and strong government commitment.
The State Vaccine Mobilisation Officer, Mr Shittu Momoh, highlighted the need for grassroots engagement. “Stakeholders must lead house-to-house and community mobilisation, particularly in hard-to-reach areas, to ensure no child is left behind,” he said.
The campaign targets children aged nine months to 14 years across all 21 local government areas of Kogi State, with a minimum goal of 95 per cent coverage.
Participants, including religious leaders, NGOs, youth and women groups, pledged to intensify awareness efforts through advocacy, public events, and interpersonal communication to ensure success.
