IMMUNIZATION: A STRONG CALL TO PROTECT EVERY CHILD AND COMMUNITY

Immunization is not merely a ceremony but a strong call to action to protect every child and every community that must not be neglected.

The Niger State Farmer Governor who was represented by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Murtala Muhammad Bagana made this known during the flag-off of the 2026 World and African Immunization Week at the Primary Health Care Centre along Peter Sarki Road, Tunga, saying that “behind every vaccination is a life protected and a future secured”.

According to him “going by this year’s theme, ‘For Every Generation, Vaccines Work,’ I know how vaccines have saved millions of lives globally, eradicating smallpox and nearly eliminating polio.

“These gains are not just statistics but stories of children who lived, families kept whole, and communities spared from preventable tragedies.”

The Niger State Farmer Governor, Mohammed Umar Bago however reaffirmed the State’s commitment in ensuring that no child is left behind, adding that “the 25 Local Government Areas are actively engaged 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.”

Speaking also, the Chairman of Chanchaga Local Government and former Commissioner for Health in the State, Dr. Mustapha Jibril called on community leaders to rise to the challenge of dispelling misinformation and encourage acceptance at the grassroots level.

” The state can meet its target of vaccinating over 80 percent of children, Dr. Jibril urhed the Ministry of Health and development partners to sustain the immunization campaigns and get to Hard to Reach communities.” he said

Hon. (Dr) Alheri dismissed widespread myths about vaccines, pledging that “on behalf of the 25 local government Chairmen , we will align with the state government’s health agenda and ensure every child is immunise”.

In its goodwill message, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) Social and Behaviour Change (SBC) Team Lead, Grace Odeyemi, reiterated that vaccines have consistently proven effective against childhood diseases and reaffirmed the organization’s commitment to supporting the State in reaching zero-dose children.

One of the expectant mothers who spoke with Journalists, Aisha Isa, called on mothers and pregnant women to prioritise vaccination if they must have healthy children.

According to her “this is my second pregnancy and I have always attended antenatal care. The health workers educate and guide us through the trimesters.

Another nursing mother, Katumi Aliyu recounted her consistent visits and the reassurance provided through regular medical checks.

Their experiences reflect the real impact of immunization and Primary Healthcare services bringing hope, confidence, and healthier beginnings to families across the state.