By: Tunde Bolaji –Minna.
Wife of the Niger State Governor, Hajiya Fatima Bago, has pledged her full support for the upcoming Measles-Rubella Vaccine Advocacy Project in the state.
In a significant show of commitment to public health, the Niger State First Lady demonstrated her unwavering support for the project.
She made this pledge during an advocacy visit by key stakeholders aiming to enhance vaccination coverage across the state.
The delegation, which included the Honourable Commissioner for Primary Healthcare—represented by the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Mohammed Gana—engaged the First Lady on the planned October 2025 rollout of the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccination campaign.
Dr. Aisha Ndaliman, the State Focal Person for the project, provided insight into the initiative’s objectives, focusing on curbing the spread of measles and rubella, especially among vulnerable children.
Dr. Isa Yahaya Vatsa, the North Central Consultant, highlighted the pivotal role of the First Lady and the expected contributions of the wives of the 25 Local Government Chairmen in spearheading grassroots implementation efforts.
Dr. Vatsa emphasized the severe risks posed by rubella, particularly to pregnant women, and stressed the importance of raising awareness about the symptoms of both diseases.
He announced that the state-wide MR vaccination campaign will commence in October, with the goal of achieving full coverage for all eligible children.
The project is predominantly supported by GAVI, in partnership with federal, state, NDSC, and local government authorities.
Honourable Iliyasu Zakari, Chairman of Agwara Local Government and ALGON Chairman, assured local government support for the project’s funding and implementation. He also praised the First Lady’s dedication to improving the health of women and children.
Reiterating her commitment, Hajiya Fatima Mohammed Bago expressed immense gratitude to the delegation for their advocacy efforts and pledged her total support for the success of the project. She commended all stakeholders involved in the mission to safeguard the health of mothers and children across Niger State.