By Zainab Faruk
The Bauchi State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the health and wellbeing of children through expanded immunization coverage, as the state officially flagged off the Integrated Measles-Rubella Vaccination Campaign.
The ceremony, organized by the Bauchi State Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in collaboration with the Bauchi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, was performed by the First Lady of Bauchi State, Hajiya (Dr.) Aishatu Bala Mohammed, who was represented by the wife of the Deputy Governor, Hajiya Asma’u Muhammad Auwal Jatau.
Speaking during the flag-off held in Bauchi, the First Lady described the campaign as a major milestone in the collective effort to protect the health and future of children across the state. She emphasized that measles and rubella remain among the most contagious and dangerous diseases globally, posing serious health risks to children and pregnant women.
“This day marks yet another milestone in our efforts to protect the health and future of our children—the pride and hope of our dear state. The integrated measles-rubella campaign is a vital public health intervention aimed at vaccinating all children aged 9 months to 14 years to ensure they are protected against these deadly diseases,” she said.
Hajiya Aishatu noted that the campaign goes beyond measles and rubella immunization, as the government is also carrying out a mass vaccination exercise to protect children from multiple life-threatening diseases. These include childhood vaccines for ages 0–23 months, polio vaccines for ages 0–59 months, and HPV vaccines for girls aged 9 years.
She assured parents that vaccines are safe, effective, and fully funded by the government, urging all households to visit the nearest health facilities or vaccination sites to ensure their children receive every recommended dose.
“As a mother, I call on all parents and caregivers to take advantage of this opportunity and make sure their children are vaccinated. Immunization is one of the simplest, safest, and most effective ways to protect our children—it is an act of love and responsibility to our families and communities,” she stressed.
The First Lady commended Governor Bala Mohammed for his unwavering commitment to the health and welfare of women and children, highlighting that under his leadership, the state continues to expand routine immunization services, strengthen health delivery, and promote community engagement.
She also expressed appreciation to development partners including WHO, UNICEF, Gavi, CDC, APNIC, CHI, USAID, and others for their technical and financial support. Similarly, she acknowledged the contribution of traditional and religious leaders for mobilizing communities and dispelling misinformation about vaccines.
The First Lady further praised health workers, volunteers, and community mobilizers for their dedication to reaching every household, even in the most remote areas of the state.
“As we flag off this campaign, I call on all stakeholders—community leaders, parents, caregivers, and youth groups—to join hands with the government and partners to ensure that no eligible child is left unvaccinated,” she added.
The event was attended by the Commissioner for Health, the Executive Chairman of the State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Rilwanu Mohammed, representatives of development partners, traditional and religious leaders, as well as members of the press.
The First Lady officially declared the campaign open, expressing hope that with collective action and community support, Bauchi State would achieve full immunization coverage, reduce child mortality, and build a healthier and stronger society.
“Together, we can make measles, rubella, and other preventable diseases a thing of the past in Bauchi State,” she concluded.
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