By Muhammad Amaan
The Lagos State Primary Health Care Board (LSPHCB) says it has achieved 89 per cent vaccination coverage of the targeted children in its ongoing immunisation campaign across the state.
The Permanent Secretary, Dr Ibrahim Mustafa, in a statement on Thursday said the achievement was a testament to the state government’s drive to safeguard the health and future of children.
Lagos state began a week-long Measles-Rubella (MR) and Routine Immunisation (RI) Campaign on Jan. 27, across all local government areas (LGAs) and local council development areas (LCDAs).
Dr Mustafa attributed the positive outcome to strong collaboration between government, health workers, community leaders, development partners, and parents.
“The vaccination of 89 per cent of our targeted children is a clear indication that Lagosians understand the importance of immunisation in protecting the lives of our children.
“This success is commendable, but it is not the end of the journey. Every child matter, and we are determined to ensure that no eligible child is left unprotected.”
Following this achievement, Mustafa announced plans to start an intensive mop-up exercise aimed at identifying and vaccinating children who were missed during the initial phase of the campaign.
He said these unvaccinated children were missed due to absence, movement, misinformation, or other logistical challenges.
Dr Mustafa explained that the mop-up phase would involve house-to-house visits, community outreach activities, and intensified engagement at health facilities to ensure that all missed children receive life-saving vaccines.
He emphasised that routine immunisation is safe, effective, and free, adding that vaccines used in Lagos are approved by relevant regulatory authorities and meet national and international safety standards.
“Vaccines protect children against dangerous diseases such as measles, polio, diphtheria, whooping cough and tuberculosis.
“These diseases can cause severe complications, disability, or even death, yet they are completely preventable through timely vaccination.
“Immunisation is not just a personal choice; it is a collective responsibility to protect our communities,” he said.
The Permanent Secretary reassured parents and caregivers that trained health professionals will continue to administer vaccines with the highest standards of care, while maintaining proper storage, handling, and documentation procedures.
He urged parents, guardians, religious and traditional leaders, and community influencers to back the vaccination drive by encouraging families to vaccinate their children and countering vaccine myths and misinformation.
“We urge parents and caregivers to take advantage of this opportunity. Bring your children to the nearest primary health care centre or welcome our health workers when they visit your homes.
“Vaccination is one of the greatest gifts you can give your child, a healthy start to life and a stronger future,” Mustafa appealed.
He reiterated the Board’s commitment to achieving optimal immunisation coverage in line with the state government’s THEME+ agenda and global best practices.
He assured residents that continuous monitoring and community engagement would remain a priority.
