The First Lady of Niger State, Fatima Umaru Bago, has officially launched a sensitization campaign for the Measles-Rubella vaccine while unveiling vital support items for midwives, including specialized scrubs and kits. This initiative aims to enhance child and maternal health across all twenty local councils of the state.

During the flag-off event held in Minna on Thursday, July 24, 2025, Bago emphasized that health is a collective responsibility, calling for cooperation among government entities, healthcare providers, traditional leaders, families, and the broader community to combat vaccine-preventable diseases. She stated, “The fight against vaccine-preventable diseases requires the efforts of everyone involved. We all play a crucial role.”

Bago outlined the importance of this campaign as part of the state’s commitment to decreasing childhood illnesses and maternal mortality rates. By focusing on immunization and frontline healthcare support, the initiative aims to reinforce the state’s primary healthcare system.

As a member of the Nigeria Governors’ Spouses Forum, Fatima reaffirmed their united commitment to safeguarding children under five through timely immunizations. She highlighted the dangers posed by measles and rubella, particularly the severe risks to pregnant women, and encouraged everyone present to act as ambassadors for the vaccine, promoting awareness and uptake within their communities.

In praise of the Renewed Hope Initiative led by the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, she acknowledged the contribution of midwives nationwide, stating, “Midwives are the silent heroes of our healthcare system. Providing them with the appropriate tools uplifts their morale and enhances the quality of care for mothers and newborns.”

Fatima also called on the wives of Local Government Chairmen to lead grassroots awareness campaigns, engaging families and ensuring that all eligible children aged 9 months to 14 years receive their vaccinations.

Governor Umaru Bago remains steadfast in his commitment to providing equitable and quality healthcare for all Niger State citizens.

Dr. Isah Yahaya Vatsa, the North Central Consultant for Measles-Rubella Vaccine Advocacy from the Centre for Well-being and Integrated Nutrition Solutions, presented information on the implications of measles and rubella. He stressed the importance of vaccinating children aged 9 months to 15 years in line with the upcoming national rollout scheduled for October 2025.

Vatsa noted, “After the nationwide campaign, the Measles-Rubella vaccine will become part of Nigeria’s routine immunization schedule, administered at both 9 and 15 months.”

Dr. Ibrahim Ahmed Dangana, Commissioner for the Ministry of Primary Health Care, described the launch as a pivotal moment in the state’s health mission, stating, “By introducing this vaccine, we are taking a proactive step to reduce childhood morbidity and mortality, ensuring a healthier future for our children.”

The event included the symbolic distribution of 3,000 professional kits to midwives across all twenty local councils, as well as the conferment of Measles-Rubella Vaccine champion titles to local government chairmen, recognizing their role in this vital health initiative.
This coordinated effort marks a significant
and most vulnerable citizens.