Dare Babalola
The Lagos State Primary Health Care Board has urged traditional rulers, particularly Ijebu-speaking monarchs, to lend their influence to the upcoming Measles-Rubella vaccination campaign, scheduled to roll out in January 2026, aiming to boost immunization coverage across the state.
The Lagos State Primary Health Care Board made the appeal on Friday during a courtesy visit to the Onilekki of Lekki’s palace, as part of their monthly traditional leaders’ engagement.
Mrs. Grace Honfor, Director of Health Education and Health Promotion Services at LSPHCB, speaking for the delegation, stressed that traditional rulers are key to making the campaign a success.
She urged them to help counter misinformation, myths, and misconceptions about vaccines in their communities, noting that the Measles–Rubella vaccine would be integrated into the routine immunisation schedule following the campaign.
The Immunisation Programme Coordinator for Lagos State, Dr. Adetola Akinpelu, highlighted the health risks posed by measles and rubella (German measles), stressing that the prevalence of these diseases remains high in Africa.
He explained that children aged nine months to 14 years would receive one dose during the introductory phase, and when incorporated into routine immunisation, children aged 9 months and 15 months would receive the vaccine.
He assured stakeholders that the vaccines are safe, effective, and free, and that maximum protection is achieved when both are administered together.
Mallam Aliyu of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) commended the Lagos State Government and traditional rulers for their commitment to public health.
He called for continued partnership and guidance to safeguard families and expressed gratitude to development partners for their support in building public confidence in immunisation programmes.
Responding on behalf of the Monarchs, the Chairman of the Ijebu-speaking Obas and Ayangburen of Ikorodu, Oba Kabir Adewale Shotobi, reaffirmed the traditional rulers’ readiness to support the campaign.
He stressed the need for increased awareness, sensitisation, and professionalism in vaccine administration to build trust and confidence among community members.
The engagement reinforced the shared commitment of government agencies and traditional institutions to protecting children’s health and ensuring the success of the Measles–Rubella vaccination campaign across the state.
