Lagos Seeks Traditional Rulers’ Backing for January Measles–Rubella Vaccination Campaign
The Lagos State Primary Health Care Board (LSPHCB) has urged traditional rulers, particularly Ijebu-speaking monarchs, to support the upcoming Measles–Rubella vaccination campaign set for January 2026. The appeal came during a courtesy visit to the Palace of the Onilekki of Lekki as part of the Board’s monthly engagement with community leaders.
Mrs. Grace Honfor, Director of Health Education and Health Promotion Services at LSPHCB, highlighted the vital role of traditional rulers in promoting the campaign’s success. She called on them to help dispel misinformation, myths, and misconceptions about vaccines, noting that the Measles–Rubella vaccine will later be integrated into the routine immunisation schedule.
Dr. Adetola Akinpelu, Lagos State Immunisation Programme Coordinator, emphasised the health risks of measles and rubella, pointing out that their prevalence remains high in Africa. He explained that children aged nine months to 14 years will receive one dose during the initial phase, and subsequently, the vaccine will be given to children aged nine months and 15 months as part of routine immunisation. He assured that the vaccines are safe, effective, and free, with maximum protection achieved when both are administered together.
Mallam Aliyu of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) praised the Lagos State Government and traditional rulers for their commitment to public health, urging continued partnership to protect families and acknowledging development partners for supporting public confidence in immunisation programmes.
Responding on behalf of the monarchs, Oba Kabir Adewale Shotobi, Chairman of the Ijebu-speaking Obas and Ayangburen of Ikorodu, reaffirmed their readiness to support the campaign. He stressed the importance of heightened awareness, community sensitisation, and professionalism in vaccine administration to build trust.
The engagement underscored the shared commitment of government agencies and traditional institutions to safeguarding children’s health and ensuring the success of Lagos State’s Measles–Rubella vaccination campaign.
#UTVAfrica#
