The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has declared full support for the upcoming national measles and rubella vaccination campaign, encouraging Nigerians to unite and ensure its success.
Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja, the revered monarch emphasized the importance of the campaign, which is scheduled to kick off nationwide in October, led by the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) and supported by several health partners.
“Measles and Rubella are not far-off threats. They’re serious illnesses affecting our children. Thankfully, we can stop them with vaccines,” the monarch stated.
The campaign aims to immunize children aged nine months to 14 years and is a crucial step toward reducing preventable child deaths across the country.
Ooni Ogunwusi called on parents, guardians, teachers, and community leaders to take the vaccination seriously and ensure every eligible child gets immunized.
“This is more than just a health drive. It’s a mission to secure our future by protecting our children,” he added.
He also urged other traditional rulers, religious heads, and influencers to join in spreading awareness and clearing myths about vaccination in their communities.
“We need to educate and mobilize our people. Let’s reach every home with the truth—vaccines save lives,” he said.
The Ooni pledged to activate traditional institutions across Nigeria to ensure the campaign message reaches both urban and rural communities. He reminded Nigerians of the successful role played by traditional rulers during the COVID-19 era and promised similar support for this cause.
“If we came together for COVID-19, we can do it again. This is about protecting lives, and we’re ready to help,” he concluded.
This vaccination push is part of Nigeria’s commitment to eliminate measles and rubella, in line with global health targets and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Health experts believe the support from leaders like the Ooni will help improve vaccine acceptance, especially in hard-to-reach communities.
