The Lagos State Government has begun its first round of the 2025 National Immunization Plus Days (NIPDs) campaign, a comprehensive effort to vaccinate children under five against poliomyelitis and other preventable diseases.
The four-day initiative, which runs from May 3 to May 6, was simultaneously launched across all Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas in the state.
Dr. Ibrahim Akinwunmi Mustafa, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, personally administered oral polio vaccines to several children, including two newborns, at the Ogba Primary Health Centre to mark the campaign’s commencement.
“This campaign is a vital step in our mission to ensure every child in Lagos is protected from preventable diseases, particularly polio,” Dr. Mustafa said. “These next days serve as a reminder of our shared responsibility to reach every eligible child, regardless of location.”
The free vaccination services are available at primary health centers, designated outreach sites, and through home visits by trained health workers. Officials emphasized that no eligible child should be left unvaccinated.
Lagos State’s First Lady, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, demonstrated her support earlier in the week by leading a pre-event advocacy walk themed “A Walk for the Future” and administering vaccines to children during a symbolic flag-off ceremony. She urged parents to ensure their children receive all necessary immunizations against preventable diseases and called for an end to zero-dose cases.
The campaign is part of a nationwide initiative coordinated by the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, with support from international partners including the World Health Organization and UNICEF.
Parents and caregivers are encouraged to participate fully in this crucial public health initiative to protect children’s health and prevent disease outbreaks.
