ABUJA, Nigeria — The Federal Government of Nigeria has commenced a nationwide vaccination campaign targeting 16 million children aged 9 months to 14 years. The initiative, which began on October 6, 2025, aims to curb the spread of measles and rubella, two highly contagious diseases that pose significant health risks to children.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The campaign is part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to eliminate measles by 2030. Key components of the plan include strengthening routine immunization, enhancing disease surveillance, and integrating measles and rubella initiatives into primary healthcare services. The initiative is supported by the Federal Ministry of Health, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, Gavi, and other international development partners.

In addition to measles and rubella vaccinations, the campaign also provides immunization against polio and the human papillomavirus (HPV), particularly targeting girls aged 9 to 14 years. This integrated approach aims to maximize health benefits and ensure broader coverage.

The vaccination exercise is being carried out through various channels, including house-to-house visits, temporary vaccination posts, and fixed health facilities. Health officials have emphasized that the vaccines are safe, effective, and free of charge. Parents and caregivers are urged to make their children available for vaccination to protect them from these preventable diseases.

The launch ceremony was attended by prominent figures, including Vice President Kashim Shettima, Minister of Health and Social Welfare Dr. Tunji Edun, Sultan of Sokoto Sa’ad Abubakar, and Ooni of Ife Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi. Their presence underscores the importance of the campaign and the collective effort required to achieve its objectives.

This initiative aligns with global efforts to combat vaccine-preventable diseases. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), estimated measles vaccination prevented approximately 57 million deaths worldwide between 2000 and 2022. However, millions of children missed vaccinations during the COVID-19 pandemic, leading to an increase in measles cases and deaths in 2022 compared to previous years. Strengthening immunization efforts is crucial to reversing these setbacks and preventing future outbreaks. CDC

The Nigerian government’s commitment to this campaign reflects a proactive approach to public health and a determination to safeguard the well-being of its youngest citizens. As the campaign progresses, continuous monitoring and community engagement will be essential to ensure its success and to achieve the goal of measles elimination by 2030.

For more information on vaccination schedules and locations, parents and caregivers are encouraged to contact their local health authorities or visit official government health websites.

This campaign marks a significant step forward in Nigeria’s efforts to protect children from preventable diseases and to build a healthier future for all.

Photo: Health officials administer measles-rubella vaccines to children during the launch of the nationwide vaccination campaign in Abuja, Nigeria.