Kaduna State Governor Uba Sani, represented by Deputy Hadiza Balarabe on Thursday, pledged to introduce the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine in the state’s routine immunization campaign. Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement, Balarabe urged health workers, community leaders, and policymakers to promote vaccination.
Balarabe, stressed that immunization ensures healthier futures, “As a medical doctor and public servant, I understand the crucial role immunization plays in shaping the future of our society. A healthy child today means a more productive adult tomorrow,’’ she said, while highlighting that there are 627 suspected measles cases across Nigeria in 2025, with over 80% of confirmed cases among unvaccinated children, emphasizing the urgency of vaccination.
The Governor called on local government chairmen’s spouses to champion community sensitization, ensuring no child misses the vaccine. First Lady Hafsat Sani echoed this, urging women to prioritize routine vaccinations and encouraging leaders to raise awareness.
Health Commissioner Umma Ahmad underscored the threat of measles and rubella to young children and pregnant women, affirming Kaduna’s readiness to implement the MR vaccine for children at 9 and 15 months.
She thanked federal health authorities, UNICEF, WHO, and Gavi for their support, reinforcing the state’s commitment to eliminating these vaccine-preventable diseases through widespread immunization efforts.
“Kaduna State is ready to embrace this change and incorporate it fully into our routine services. By adding the MR vaccine to our routine schedule, Kaduna will ensure that every eligible child – those at 9 months and those returning at 15 months – receives this life-saving immunisation,’’ the commissioner promised.
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