The Nigerian Governors’ Spouses Forum (NGSF) has launched an ambitious nationwide campaign to eradicate preventable childhood diseases, focusing on administering the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine. The campaign is a collaborative effort with the Centre for Well-being and Integrated Nutrition Solutions (C-WINS), aiming to increase vaccine coverage across Nigeria significantly. Dr. Nihinlola Mabogunje, the C-WINS project team lead, emphasised that this initiative is not merely a health intervention but an important investment in the country’s future by ensuring the next generation remains healthy.
The project aims to increase MR vaccine coverage to 95%, a critical target given the highly contagious nature of measles and rubella. These diseases can cause severe health complications, such as pneumonia, brain swelling, and even death. Rubella, when contracted during pregnancy, can lead to miscarriage or birth defects.
Acknowledging the importance of awareness, particularly in rural and underserved areas, the NGSF is taking proactive steps to promote the vaccine. The First Ladies, who hold significant influence at the state and local levels, spearhead efforts to counter vaccine hesitancy and foster trust in the vaccination process.
A key milestone in this campaign occurred on February 22, 2025, when C-WINS’ Head of Mission, Dr. Zubairu Mahmud, led a delegation to meet with Prof. Olufolake Abdulrazaq, the First Lady of Kwara State and Chairperson of the NGSF, in Ilorin. The delegation included representatives from the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the National Orientation Agency (NOA), and various health-focused NGOS. This engagement highlighted Kwara State’s leadership in promoting equitable vaccine access and reinforced the commitment to the campaign’s goals.
Key outcomes from the meeting included plans for stakeholder engagement, collaboration with traditional and religious leaders to combat misinformation, and securing funding contributions from state and local governments. Additionally, partnerships with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) Office and over 80 NGOS, including the AJIKE People’s Support Centre, were established to broaden outreach and public mobilisation efforts supporting the vaccine rollout.
