Niger State Governor Highlights the Critical Importance of Immunization
Niger State Governor, Umaru Bago, has underlined immunization as a vital responsibility that must not be overlooked, emphasizing that “today is not merely a ceremony but a strong call to action to protect every child and community.”
Represented by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Murtala Muhammad Bagana, the governor made this statement during the launch of the 2026 World and African Immunization Week at the Primary Health Care Center along Peter Sarki Road, Tunga, stating, “behind every vaccination is a life protected and a future secured.”
He noted that, “based on this year’s theme, ‘For Every Generation, Vaccines Work,’ vaccines have saved millions of lives worldwide, eradicating smallpox and nearly eliminating polio. These achievements are more than just statistics; they are stories of children saved, families preserved, and communities spared from preventable tragedies.”
The governor reaffirmed the state’s dedication to ensuring no child is left behind, adding, “The 25 Local Government Areas are actively involved in immunization efforts. I assure residents that vaccines remain free, safe, and effective.
I urge parents and caregivers to complete their children’s immunization schedules.”
Furthermore, Dr. Mustapha Jibril, the chairman of Chanchaga Local Government and a former health commissioner, called on community leaders to combat misinformation and promote vaccine acceptance at the grassroots level.
He urged the Ministry of Health and development partners to continue immunization campaigns to reach hard-to-reach communities, emphasizing that efforts to meet the over 80 percent vaccination target are ongoing.
He dismissed common myths about vaccines, pledging support from the 25 local government chairpersons to align with the state’s health agenda and ensure every child is immunized.
In a goodwill message, UNICEF’s Social and Behavior Change Team Lead, Grace Odeyemi, reaffirmed the effectiveness of vaccines against childhood diseases and pledged ongoing support to help the state reach zero-dose children.
Aisha Isa, an expectant mother, encouraged fellow mothers and pregnant women to prioritize vaccination to ensure healthy children. She shared, “This is my second pregnancy, and I have always attended antenatal care. The health workers educate and guide us through the trimesters.”
Another mother, Katumi Aliyu, recounted her regular visits and the reassurance she received from routine medical checks.
Their experiences highlight the vital role of immunization and primary healthcare services in fostering healthier families and communities across the state.
