Niger State Launches Statewide Immunisation Advocacy Campaign to Boost Child Health
The Niger State Government has officially launched a comprehensive statewide advocacy campaign focused on routine immunisation and the strengthening of primary healthcare services. This initiative was formally inaugurated at the Primary Health Centre in Garatu, located within Bosso Local Government Area, on April 15, 2026. The event was spearheaded by the wife of the governor, Fatima Mohammed Bago, who emphasised the critical importance of vaccination for children's futures.
First Lady's Call to Action for Child Protection
During the flag-off ceremony, Fatima Mohammed Bago described immunisation as "an act of love, protection, and faith," underscoring that vaccinating children is essential to securing their health and well-being. She reassured mothers across the state that vaccines administered at health centres are safe, effective, and globally trusted, providing protection against diseases such as measles, polio, diphtheria, and tetanus. Urging parents not to let fear or misinformation deter them, she stated, "When one child is left unvaccinated, others are also at risk. We must ensure no child in Niger State is left behind." She also called on religious and traditional leaders to actively support awareness efforts within their communities to promote vaccine uptake.
Infrastructure and Workforce Expansion Plans
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Health, Murtala Muhammad Bagana, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Abdullahi Usman Imam, revealed ambitious plans by the administration of Governor Muhammad Umaru Bago. The government intends to construct 111 Level II primary healthcare centres across the state, with over 20 already completed and 92 additional centres currently under construction. These projects are being carried out in partnership with organisations including the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, UNICEF, and other development partners. The facilities will be fully equipped with drugs and modern medical equipment to enhance service delivery.
Furthermore, the commissioner disclosed significant workforce recruitment efforts, with 396 health workers already recruited through GAVI and 384 engaged by other partners. Plans are underway to recruit an additional 1,000 personnel to address staffing needs. He noted, "No matter how beautiful the facilities are, without adequate staff, service delivery will be compromised," highlighting the importance of human resources in healthcare provision.
Alignment with Broader Healthcare Goals
Earlier in the programme, the Executive Director of the Niger State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Inuwa Junaidu, explained that this initiative aligns with ongoing efforts to deliver accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare, particularly for women and children. He highlighted key programmes such as routine immunisation, antenatal and postnatal care, nutrition services, and community outreach, all aimed at improving maternal and child health outcomes. "Our goal is clear: no child should be left behind, regardless of location or socio-economic status," he affirmed, reinforcing the campaign's inclusive approach.
Partnerships and Community Engagement
Representatives from key partners, including UNICEF and the Nigerian Governors’ Wives Forum, pledged continued support to ensure access to quality healthcare for vulnerable populations. The campaign will be implemented across all 25 local government areas of Niger State, with a focus on grassroots mobilisation. A notable highlight of the event was the decoration of the wives of the 25 local government chairmen as immunisation ambassadors by the First Lady. These ambassadors are tasked with promoting vaccine awareness and protecting children's health in their respective communities, enhancing local engagement and trust.
Additionally, the governor’s wife, alongside stakeholders such as Umaru Farouk Bahago, inspected the newly constructed Garatu Primary Health Centre, showcasing the government's commitment to improving healthcare infrastructure. This statewide advocacy campaign represents a significant step towards bolstering public health and ensuring comprehensive immunisation coverage for all children in Niger State.
