The Lagos State Government has announced the commencement of a comprehensive integrated immunization campaign targeting measles and rubella across all its local government areas. The initiative, which is scheduled to run from Tuesday, January 27, 2026, through Wednesday, February 5, 2026, will be officially flagged off by the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu.
Statewide Coverage and Public Health Goals
This week-long campaign will be implemented across all 57 local government councils and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) in Lagos State. The integrated campaign aligns with both national and global immunization objectives, designed specifically to safeguard children and adolescents from various vaccine-preventable diseases. In a statement released on Saturday, Adetayo Akitoye Asagba, the Assistant Director of Public Affairs at the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board (LSPHCB), highlighted the critical importance of this public health intervention.
Addressing Measles and Rubella Risks
Asagba emphasized that measles continues to be one of the leading causes of vaccine-preventable childhood illnesses. Additionally, rubella infection during pregnancy can result in congenital rubella syndrome, which may lead to serious health outcomes such as congenital heart defects, cataracts, hearing impairment, and developmental delays in infants. This campaign aims to mitigate these risks through widespread vaccination efforts.
Official Statements and Strategic Importance
Dr. Ibrahim Akinwunmi Mustafa, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, affirmed that routine immunization is a proven intervention for preventing a range of vaccine-preventable diseases, including polio, tuberculosis, whooping cough, diphtheria, and cervical cancer. He stated, "This integrated immunization campaign is a critical public health intervention aimed at preventing measles, rubella, and other vaccine-preventable diseases. Lagos State is determined to ensure that every eligible child and adolescent is reached, irrespective of location or socioeconomic status."
Dr. Mustafa further reassured the public that "the vaccines provided are safe, effective, and completely free." He underscored that sustained immunization efforts contribute significantly to reducing child morbidity and mortality, improving school attendance, and promoting long-term economic and social development. "Immunization is one of the most cost-effective public health investments. We urge parents, guardians, community leaders, religious leaders, and school authorities to support this campaign by ensuring that eligible children and adolescents receive their vaccines," he added.
Collaborative Efforts and Implementation Strategy
The campaign will be implemented with the support of key development partners, including:
- The Federal Ministry of Health
- The National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA)
- The World Health Organization (WHO)
- The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)
- Other immunization partners
According to the official statement, this collaboration will strengthen various aspects of the campaign, including vaccine delivery, cold chain management, health worker training, and community engagement across the state. To ensure comprehensive coverage, vaccination services will be provided at multiple locations:
- Primary health care facilities
- Schools
- Religious centres
- Temporary vaccination posts
This multi-pronged approach is designed to reach hard-to-access and underserved populations effectively. All vaccinations will be administered by trained health personnel in strict adherence to national and international safety standards.
Call to Action and Government Commitment
Residents have been strongly encouraged to visit the nearest primary health care centre or designated vaccination post within their communities during the campaign period. The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to building a healthier, safer, and more resilient population through effective immunization programmes. This initiative represents a significant step towards achieving broader public health goals and protecting vulnerable populations from preventable diseases.
