The Ogun State Government has given a firm commitment to provide all necessary financial and logistical backing for a large-scale measles and rubella immunisation campaign set to roll out across the state later this month.
Government and Task Force Assure Readiness
During a crucial meeting of the State Task Force on Primary Health Care in Abeokuta, the Deputy Governor, Engr. (Mrs) Noimot Salako-Oyedele, who chairs the task force, dispelled any concerns about preparedness. She confirmed that a request for the required funds has been submitted and expressed confidence in its swift approval to facilitate a successful exercise.
"The request for funding has been made, and we are confident it will be approved promptly to enable us to meet our responsibilities in this very intensive exercise," Salako-Oyedele stated. She reiterated the administration's unwavering support, alongside that of Governor Dapo Abiodun, for all primary healthcare initiatives.
Massive Mobilisation and Target Demographic
Dr Elijah Ogunsola, the Executive Secretary of the Ogun State Primary Health Care Board, provided detailed plans for the campaign. He announced that the immunisation drive is scheduled to run for 10 days, from January 27 to February 5, 2026.
In a significant expansion of reach, the campaign will target children aged nine months to 14 years, marking it as one of the widest age-range vaccination exercises in the state's history. To achieve full coverage, over 8,000 health workers will be deployed to schools, health facilities, and communities.
Collaborative Efforts and Community Engagement
The Deputy Governor extended gratitude to the State Ministry of Health, development partners, and specifically UNICEF for their sustained collaboration. She highlighted the provision of ambulance boats as a key innovation to improve healthcare access in riverine areas.
Recognising the importance of public awareness, Salako-Oyedele called on religious institutions, Community Development Associations, women's groups, the National Orientation Agency, and the media to amplify sensitisation efforts. She urged the use of social media platforms and influencers to effectively communicate with parents and youths.
Earlier, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Tomi Coker, praised stakeholders for their consistent partnership. The UNICEF representative, Mrs Moloku, commended the state's commitment, aligning it with global goals to eradicate preventable diseases in Africa, and promised continued technical and financial support.
The meeting also served as a platform to review the state's primary healthcare performance. Dr Ogunsola reported general improvements across local governments in 2025, while acknowledging persistent challenges related to infrastructure and logistics, which will be escalated for the Governor's attention.
