The Lagos State Government has officially flagged off the introduction of the Measles–Rubella (MR) vaccine into the State’s Routine Immunisation Programme, reinforcing its commitment to protecting children from vaccine-preventable diseases.
Eko Hot News reports that the flag-off ceremony was held at the Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Council Secretariat and was presided over by the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu.
Representing the First Lady, the wife of the Deputy Governor, Chief Mrs Oluremi Hamzat, said the introduction of the MR vaccine reflects the vision of the Sanwo-Olu administration under the T.H.E.M.E.S Plus Agenda.
She noted that health, human capital development, social inclusion and governance remain central pillars of the administration’s development strategy.
The First Lady stated that sustained investments in the health sector have improved maternal and child health outcomes, with Primary Health Care positioned as the foundation of an equitable and resilient health system.
She described the MR vaccine introduction as a timely intervention aimed at eliminating measles and rubella and preventing lifelong disabilities among children.
Also speaking is the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. (Mrs.) Kemi Ogunyemi said the initiative is a critical step toward securing the future of Lagos children.
She stressed that no child should die from preventable diseases, adding that the programme underscores the government’s commitment to child health and family well-being.
Providing technical details, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, Dr Ibrahim Akinwunmi Mustafa, mni, explained that over 10.4 million children aged nine months to 14 years will be reached during the initial mass vaccination phase.
He disclosed that the vaccine will thereafter be fully integrated into routine immunisation at nine months (MR1) and 15 months (MR2).
Dr Mustafa urged parents and caregivers to cooperate with health workers to ensure full coverage across the state.
In his welcome address, the Chairman of Ibeju-Lekki Local Government Area, Hon. Engr. Abdullahi Sesan Olowa commended the state government for prioritising grassroots healthcare delivery.
Traditional rulers, senior health officials and representatives of WHO, UNICEF, GAVI, CHAI and AFENET were also in attendance.
