Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo of Kogi State has officially inaugurated a comprehensive immunisation drive integrating Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccination with the novel Oral Poliovirus vaccine (nOPV), Human Papillomavirus (HPV) immunisation, and enhancements to the Routine Immunisation (RI) framework. This ambitious initiative aims to safeguard nearly 1.9 million children across the state.
Unveiled in Lokoja, the state capital, the campaign is scheduled to run from October 6 through October 15, targeting approximately 1,988,371 children between the ages of 9 months and 14 years.
Backed by UNICEF alongside various international donors, this integrated vaccination effort is set to expand progressively to additional local government areas within Kogi State.
Governor Ododo highlighted the campaign’s multifaceted goals: to immunise children against measles and rubella, bolster defenses against potential polio outbreaks, introduce the HPV vaccine to girls aged 9 to 14 to combat cervical cancer, and rejuvenate the Routine Immunisation system statewide.
He remarked, “Routine immunisation remains one of the most effective strategies to eliminate preventable diseases and protect our communities. It is imperative that we collectively ensure every child receives these life-saving vaccines.”
Committed to comprehensive coverage, the governor assured that the campaign will reach every ward and district throughout Kogi State.
Appealing to parents and guardians, he urged them to bring their children forward for vaccination, while expressing gratitude to traditional and religious leaders for their ongoing efforts in educating communities about the critical importance of immunisation.
Governor Ododo underscored that this campaign symbolizes a dedication to safeguarding lives, fostering positive change, and securing the health of future generations.
During an on-site visit to Ogori/Magongo Local Government Area in Kogi Central, Local Immunisation Officer Oluwafemi Felicia reported that the LGA aims to vaccinate 13,890 children with nOPV2 and 29,169 with the MR vaccine, with activities having commenced on October 6, 2025.
Felicia praised UNICEF and partner agencies for their invaluable support but noted initial resistance from some schools, a challenge swiftly addressed by local authorities.
State Health Commissioner Dr. Adeiza Abdulazeez lauded Governor Ododo’s leadership, emphasizing that the revitalisation of Primary Health Care centers has been warmly embraced by communities across the state.
Dr. Abdulazeez also acknowledged the vital role played by religious scholars and community leaders in advancing public health education.
Earlier, Dr. Musa Muazu, Executive Director of the Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, detailed the preparatory steps taken, including meticulous microplanning, cold chain logistics mobilisation, and deployment of social mobilisation teams.
He called on parents, caregivers, and community influencers to ensure every eligible child receives vaccination, stressing that vaccines are safe, free, and life-saving.
Dr. Muazu extended his appreciation to the governor, health commissioner, development partners, healthcare personnel, and community stakeholders for their unwavering support.
In a message of encouragement, Abdulrazaq Ishola, representing the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), commended Kogi State for achieving full immunisation coverage in previous campaigns.
He highlighted Governor Ododo’s active participation in the campaign launch as a testament to his dedication to public health and recommended the recruitment of additional frontline and auxiliary health workers to further enhance healthcare services in the state.
