Niger State Ignites Immunization Drive

Governor Muhammad Umaru Bago has declared that immunization is far more than a routine ceremony; it is a “critical responsibility” that guards the future of every child in Niger State.

Speaking at the launch of the 2026 World and African Immunization Week at the Tunga Primary Health Care Centre in Minna, the Governor, represented by Health Commissioner Dr. Murtala Muhammad Bagana, reminded the public that the fight against preventable diseases is a call to action that no community can afford to ignore.

Under the global theme, “For Every Generation, Vaccines Work,” the Governor reflected on the historical triumphs of medicine, noting how vaccines have moved beyond statistics to become the silent authors of millions of success stories. From the global eradication of smallpox to the near-elimination of polio, these victories represent families kept whole and communities spared from the heartbreak of avoidable tragedies. Bago reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to reaching every corner of the state’s 25 Local Government Areas, assuring residents that life-saving vaccines remain free, safe, and readily available.

However, the campaign faces a persistent enemy: misinformation. Dr. Mustapha Jibril, Chairman of Chanchaga Local Government, issued a direct appeal to community leaders to stand as pillars of truth at the grassroots level. He urged them to dispel the myths that often cause parents to hesitate, emphasizing that the success of the health system depends heavily on local acceptance. The call for parents and caregivers to complete their children’s full immunization schedules was echoed throughout the event as a non-negotiable step toward long-term health.

The real-world impact of these services was best described by the mothers who rely on them. Aisha Isa, currently in her second pregnancy, shared how the education provided during her antenatal visits has given her the confidence to prioritize vaccination. Similarly, Katumi Aliyu, a nursing mother, spoke of the reassurance she finds in the regular medical checks provided by the health center. For these women, the immunization week is not just a policy launch—it is the foundation of a healthier beginning for their families and a promise of a stronger Niger State.