Minna: The Niger State Government has inaugurated the Immunisation Plus campaign to protect children against polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases amid concerns about a possible resurgence of the virus.
The Deputy Governor, Mr Yakubu Garba, inaugurated the campaign in Minna on Monday, targeting children and other vulnerable groups.
Garba said that the initiative formed part of the government’s broader strategy to reduce maternal and child mortality and improve public health outcomes.
He said the campaign would intensify community awareness and access to routine immunisation services.
The deputy governor urged parents, caregivers, teachers, and community leaders to ensure that all eligible children were vaccinated.
“Immunisation remains one of the most effective tools for preventing childhood diseases and disabilities,” he said.
Garba emphasised that the state government would continue to collaborate with stakeholders to ensure strict adherence to health standards and protocols.
He warned that refusal to accept immunisation constituted a violation of existing laws and could attract sanctions, including imprisonment.
He called on traditional and religious institutions to intensify community mobilisation and awareness campaigns, noting that their involvement builds trust and ensures vaccine acceptance at the grassroots.
He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to achieving a disease-free society, adding that the government would continue to invest in healthcare programmes to promote citizens’ well-being. Bagana, the Commissioner for Health, said the campaign was essential to preventing a resurgence of polio cases in two wards of Chanchaga Local Government Area.
Bagana noted that sustained immunisation efforts were necessary to consolidate gains recorded in disease control.
He said that the state had prioritised primary healthcare financing to improve service delivery across health facilities.
According to him, strengthening the healthcare system would enhance access, quality and community confidence in services.
Dr Mustapha Jibrin, Chairman of Chanchaga Local Government Area, said the council has put measures in place to ensure a hitch-free exercise.
The council has increased awareness measures to inform residents about immunisation.
He acknowledged initial compliance challenges among some Islamiya schools and added that engaging relevant authorities resolved the issue.
The chairman urged parents and caregivers to take advantage of the campaign to protect their children against polio and other diseases.
The Immunisation Plus Days campaign is scheduled to run from May 2 to May 5 across the state’s 25 local government areas.
Niger Deputy Gov, Emir of Minna during the inauguration of immunisation plus for polio in Minna
