…aiming for a healthier future for children
The First Lady of Delta State and founder of the ‘You Matter Foundation’, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, has officially launched the Delta State Measles–Rubella Vaccination Campaign, emphasizing its importance as a vital investment in the health and safety of children throughout the state.
The launch took place at Government House in Asaba on Thursday and will continue until February 9, extending to all communities in Delta State.
In her absence, the Deputy Governor’s wife, Ezinne Catherine Onyeme, represented Deaconess Oborevwori at the flag-off ceremony.
She articulated that the campaign is not merely a routine health initiative but a committed effort to protect families from preventable diseases and enhance public health outcomes in Delta State.
“We are here to not only launch a crucial public health initiative but also to reaffirm our dedication to a healthier, safer future for the children and residents of Delta State,” she stated.
Deaconess Oborevwori highlighted that measles and rubella, while preventable, are highly contagious and pose significant dangers to children, potentially leading to severe complications like blindness, deafness, and even death if not addressed effectively.
“The good news is that these diseases can be entirely prevented through vaccination. By immunizing our children, we are reinforcing the health security of Delta State and contributing to a healthier Nigeria,” she remarked.
The Measles–Rubella vaccine will be administered to children aged nine months to 14 years, with routine immunization services also offered to those aged 0 to 23 months.
She stressed that timely and comprehensive immunization is a long-term investment in human capital and sustainable development, affirming that the Oborevwori administration remains steadfast in its commitment to quality healthcare delivery, which is a cornerstone of the MORE agenda.
“By providing our children with these essential protections, we invest in their future, enabling them to lead long, healthy, and fulfilling lives,” she stated.
Deaconess Oborevwori further emphasized that this initiative aligns with the MORE Agenda from Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s administration, which prioritizes accessible and high-quality healthcare for all Deltans.
“This initiative reflects the administration’s firm commitment to prioritizing the health and well-being of every citizen. It is not just a campaign; it is a vision grounded in hope, resilience, and the power of collective effort,” she added.
She urged parents, caregivers, and community and religious leaders to actively support the campaign by ensuring that all eligible children receive vaccinations and called for cooperation with healthcare workers across the state.
“Together, we can ensure our children are protected, our families are thriving, and our communities are flourishing,” she said.
Deaconess Oborevwori also commended the Ministry of Health, the Delta State Primary Health Care Development Agency, development partners, and frontline health workers for their ongoing dedication to the campaign’s success.
In related remarks, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, warned that measles and rubella pose significant risks, including severe complications such as pneumonia, blindness, deafness, and death.
He also noted the serious threat rubella poses to unborn children through Congenital Rubella Syndrome if contracted during pregnancy.
Represented by a Director in the Ministry of Health, Dr. Chris Iwegbu, he explained that vaccinations will take place at health facilities, schools, churches, and community centers, assuring that with the support of healthcare workers and community leaders, no child will be left unprotected.
He commended Governor Sheriff Oborevwori for prioritizing healthcare under the MORE Agenda.
In their goodwill messages, representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO), the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), UNICEF, and other development partners underscored the Measles–Rubella Vaccination Campaign’s vital role in child survival and public health security.
The event attracted numerous dignitaries, including the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Kingsley Emu, the Head of Service, Dr. (Mrs.) Mininim Oseji, and local government representatives, along with nursing mothers and schoolchildren, showcasing broad support for the vaccination campaign across the community.
The Measles–Rubella Vaccination Campaign is anticipated to significantly reduce child morbidity and mortality rates while reinforcing Delta State’s commitment to preventive healthcare and sustainable development.
