Ogun State Launches 10-Day Measles Campaign for 2M Kids

Nigeria's Ogun State is mounting one of its largest vaccination campaigns ever, deploying over 8,000 health workers to protect children from measles and rubella starting January 27.

The 10-day campaign will reach children aged nine months to 14 years across schools, health facilities, and communities throughout the state. Deputy Governor Noimot Salako-Oyedele confirmed that funding requests are being fast-tracked to ensure the massive operation runs smoothly through February 5.

"The state government will do everything necessary to ensure the success of this campaign," Salako-Oyedele told health officials at a planning meeting in Abeokuta. She chairs the State Task Force on Primary Health Care and oversees coordination between government agencies and international partners.

The campaign represents a significant expansion of typical vaccination efforts. Dr. Elijah Ogunsola, Executive Secretary of the Ogun State Primary Health Care Board, called it one of the widest age-range vaccination exercises the state has ever undertaken.

Health officials are calling on churches, mosques, community groups, and social media influencers to spread the word. The all-hands approach aims to reach parents and young people through trusted voices in their communities.

UNICEF is providing technical and financial support for the campaign. Their representative, Mrs. Moloku, praised Ogun State's commitment to strengthening primary healthcare, noting it aligns with global efforts to eliminate preventable diseases across Africa.

The state has already made infrastructure improvements to support the effort, including adding ambulance boats to reach children in riverine communities where traditional vehicles can't travel.

The Ripple Effect

Measles remains one of the leading causes of death among young children globally, despite having a safe and effective vaccine. When vaccination rates climb above 95 percent in a community, the protection extends even to those who cannot be vaccinated due to age or medical conditions.

Nigeria has made significant progress reducing measles deaths over the past two decades, but outbreaks still occur in areas with low vaccination coverage. This campaign could protect an entire generation of Ogun State children from a disease that once killed thousands.

The state's multi-sector approach brings together health workers, religious leaders, media, and development organizations in a coordinated push. By meeting families where they are, whether in schools, health centers, or community gatherings, officials hope to overcome the logistics challenges that often leave rural children unvaccinated.

With funding approved and workers ready, Ogun State is showing how targeted public health campaigns can reach millions when government commits the resources and community leaders rally support.