First Lady Leads Campaign to Protect Over 1.5 Million Children as Delta Partners with WHO, UNICEF, and Local Stakeholders
In a decisive move to safeguard the health of its younger population, the Delta State Government has officially launched an aggressive Measles-Rubella Vaccine (MRV) Advocacy Rollout, aimed at immunising children aged nine months to 15 years across the state.
The high-profile event, which took place at the Unity Hall, Government House in Asaba, was spearheaded by the wife of the State Governor, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, in collaboration with the ‘You Matter Charity Foundation’, the Nigeria Governors’ Spouses Forum, the World Health Organisation (WHO), UNICEF, and other international health partners.
Speaking at the launch, Deaconess Oborevwori emphasized the urgent need to increase vaccine access and uptake, especially in communities with historically low immunisation rates.
She reiterated the Oborevwori administration’s commitment to the “MORE Agenda”, which prioritises the health and wellbeing of all Deltans, particularly children.
“It is the right of every child to be vaccinated and protected from deadly, yet preventable diseases like measles and rubella. These vaccines are safe, effective, and provided free of charge. No child should be left behind,” she said.
She also urged local government authorities, traditional and religious leaders, and civil society groups to champion the immunisation drive within their communities and ensure its success.
Delta State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, echoed the First Lady’s call to action, noting that measles and rubella, both highly contagious viral infections, pose serious health threats including pneumonia, brain damage, and even death.
“This campaign is a life-saving intervention that will drastically reduce child morbidity and mortality in our state,” Dr. Onojaeme stated.
“We have mobilised trained health officials to carry out the immunisation across all 441 primary healthcare centres in Delta.”
The launch attracted broad stakeholder participation, including representatives from WHO, UNICEF, Catholic Relief Services (CRS), and various government bodies.
Also in attendance were the wife of the Deputy Governor, Ezinne Catherine Onyeme; members of the State House of Assembly; religious and community leaders; and other dignitaries from across the state.
With this advocacy rollout, Delta State reaffirms its commitment to building a healthier future for its children and achieving universal health coverage through strategic partnerships and inclusive public health initiatives.
