The First Lady of Ondo State, Mrs. Oluwaseun Aiyedatiwa, has called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community stakeholders to actively support the upcoming Measles-Rubella vaccination campaign, scheduled to commence in January 2026.
Speaking at a stakeholder sensitisation meeting held on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, at The Dome in Akure, Mrs. Aiyedatiwa stressed the need for collective action to ensure the success of the state-wide immunisation drive. The meeting brought together health professionals, development partners, and community influencers.
“This campaign goes beyond vaccination; it’s a commitment to safeguarding our children’s health and future,” she said. “Despite being preventable, measles and rubella continue to pose serious threats, causing deaths and lifelong complications. I urge all community leaders to help combat vaccine misinformation and encourage parents to embrace immunisation.”
She assured that the vaccine is free, safe, and effective, targeting children between nine months and 15 years of age. Mrs. Aiyedatiwa also encouraged collaboration between stakeholders and grassroots organisations to ensure that no eligible child is left out.
Commending Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa for his commitment to improving healthcare access, the First Lady highlighted the rehabilitation of 102 primary health centres and the recruitment of health workers as part of the government’s efforts. She also pointed to the success of the Human Papillomavirus Vaccine Introduction (HPVVI), which has already reached over 370,000 girls in the state.
She appealed to parents and guardians whose daughters are yet to receive the HPV vaccine to visit the nearest health centre, underlining the importance of early prevention.
Also speaking at the event, Dr. Francis Akanbiemu, Permanent Secretary of the Ondo State Primary Health Care Development Agency, announced that the Measles-Rubella vaccine will replace the current routine measles vaccine. He explained that this new vaccine is vital in preventing birth defects caused by rubella, especially when contracted by unvaccinated pregnant women.
While noting that the vaccine is costly, Dr. Akanbiemu reassured attendees that it will be administered at no charge to families. He warned that women who missed childhood vaccinations may unknowingly expose themselves and their unborn children to serious health risks.
In his remarks, Mr. Tunde Ayoola, a representative of UNICEF, reaffirmed the agency’s support for the campaign. He noted that UNICEF and its partners will provide technical assistance and help with vaccine procurement.
“This meeting is key to building strategic partnerships and promoting community involvement,” Ayoola said. “The success of this campaign will rely heavily on joint advocacy, public education, and timely mobilisation of resources.”