Rotary International, in collaboration with the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON), has taken the integrated Measles-Rubella and Polio Vaccination Campaign to Kwami Local Government Area (LGA) of Gombe State.
Speaking during the exercise in Jurara village on Friday, Dr. Jide Owolodun, a Measles-Rubella consultant, said the campaign is part of a nationwide immunisation effort aimed at strengthening protection against vaccine-preventable diseases.
Owolodun, who represents the Africa Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET) in Gombe State, explained that the 2025 campaign integrates measles, rubella, and polio vaccination across the state.
He said the exercise covers several antigens, including the measles-rubella vaccine for children aged 9 months to 14 years, the novel oral polio vaccine (nOPV) for children aged 0–59 months, and the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine for nine-year-old girls.
“The entire routine immunisation schedule is also being strengthened to protect children against all vaccine-preventable diseases,” he stated.
Owolodun noted that community turnout has been impressive, attributing the success to the commitment of the Kwami LGA Chairman, the District Head of Jurara, and the staff of the Primary Health Care Department.
He urged residents to ensure that every eligible child receives vaccination during the 10-day campaign period.
In his remarks, Chairman of Kwami Local Government Council, Dr. Ahmed Wali, commended Governor Inuwa Yahaya, Rotary International, and other development partners for their support.
He recalled that in the past, polio infections were often linked to superstitious beliefs, but assured that under his leadership, no effort would be spared to ensure every eligible child is vaccinated.
“Parents and guardians must vaccinate their children. It’s our responsibility to protect them from polio, measles, rubella, and the human papillomavirus,” he said.
Dr. Wali also lauded Governor Yahaya for strengthening healthcare delivery through improved immunisation and disease prevention initiatives.
The District Head of Jurara, Mu’awuya Hassan, pledged to mobilise his community to participate fully in the campaign.
Highlight of the event was a rally led by the LGA chairman across the community to raise awareness on the importance of vaccination.
