As Nigeria prepares for the nationwide introduction of the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine in October 2025, advocacy efforts are intensifying to ensure widespread acceptance and uptake. Leading this crucial advocacy campaign is the Centre for Well-being and Integrated Nutrition Solutions (C-WINS), a key player in championing vaccine access and public health interventions. Through strategic coalition-building and community engagement, C-WINS is working to drive demand for the new vaccine, particularly among children aged 9 months to 15 years.

The Measles-Rubella Challenge in Nigeria Measles and Rubella remain significant public health threats in Nigeria, contributing to severe complications such as pneumonia, encephalitis, birth defects, and even death. Despite progress in routine immunization, periodic outbreaks of measles continue to occur, highlighting the need for enhanced prevention strategies. The introduction of the MR vaccine is a win-win step toward eliminating these diseases and aligning Nigeria’s immunization program with global best practices.

C-WINS’ Advocacy Strategy: Building Coalition platforms for Impact Recognizing the urgency of this intervention, C-WINS has deployed a multi-faceted advocacy strategy aimed at fostering multi-stakeholder collaboration. The organization has established coalition platforms comprising policymakers, civil society organizations, religious and traditional leaders, healthcare professionals, and media partners. These platforms serve as vehicles for amplifying the importance of MR vaccination, countering misinformation, and mobilizing grassroots support.

A key component of C-WINS’ approach is targeted engagement with grassroots through traditional and religious leaders, collaborating with the Nigerian Governors Spouses to mobilize women groups and key government agencies to secure political commitment and policy support for the MR vaccine rollout. By leveraging data-driven advocacy, the organization presents evidence on the burden of measles and rubella, the cost-effectiveness of vaccination, and the potential long-term health and economic benefits of high coverage rates.

Addressing Vaccine Hesitancy and Public Concerns One of the major challenges to vaccine introduction in Nigeria is vaccine hesitancy, fueled by misinformation and distrust in immunization programs. C-WINS has prioritized proactive communication strategies, including community dialogues, town hall meetings, radio and television campaigns, and social media engagements, to dispel myths and reinforce the safety and efficacy of the MR vaccine. By engaging trusted community figures such as religious leaders and traditional rulers, the advocacy initiative aims to build public confidence and drive vaccine acceptance.

Commendation to the Government of Nigeria through the NPHCDA where the advocacy is anchored, proactive leadership under the stewardship of Dr Muyi Aina, and partners Nigeria has continued to strengthen its immunization infrastructure, expand routine vaccination coverage, and implement innovative strategies to reach underserved populations. The agency’s commitment to addressing vaccine hesitancy through strategic community engagement and public sensitization efforts is commendable.

Advocating for a Healthier Future with thee MR vaccine With the planned launch of the MR vaccine campaign in October 2025, timely and sustained advocacy remains crucial to achieving high coverage and ensuring no child is left behind. The collaboration between government agencies, civil society, and community stakeholders exemplifies the power of collective action in public health. As Nigeria takes this significant step toward eliminating measles and rubella, continued investment in immunization advocacy and community engagement will be essential for sustaining progress and protecting future generations.

The success of this initiative depends on a shared commitment to prioritizing child health, combating misinformation, and fostering public trust in vaccines. With sustained advocacy and passionate leadership, Nigeria is poised to make a historic impact in the fight against measles and rubella, safeguarding millions of children from preventable diseases.