Niger State Governor Umaru Bago on Thursday declared immunisation an “non‑negotiable responsibility” and urged residents to treat vaccination as an urgent duty to protect children and prevent disease outbreaks. Speaking through the Commissioner for Health, Dr Murtala Muhammad Bagana, Bago launched the 2026 World and African Immunisation Week at the Primary Health Care Centre on Peter Sarki Road, Tunga, describing the event as a call to action rather than a ceremonial observance.
“Behind every vaccination is a life protected and a future secured,” the governor said, echoing this year’s theme, “For Every Generation, Vaccines Work.” He highlighted the global impact of vaccines, noting that they have saved millions of lives, eradicated smallpox and driven polio to the brink of extinction. Bago stressed that these achievements translate into tangible human stories – children who survive, families that stay intact and communities spared needless suffering.
The governor reaffirmed the state’s commitment to immunisation, stating that all 25 local government areas are fully mobilised for the campaign and that vaccines are free, safe and effective. He called on parents and caregivers to ensure that no child misses routine immunisation.
Dr Mustapha Jibril, Chairman of Chanchaga Local Government and former Commissioner for Health, urged community leaders to confront misinformation and promote acceptance at the grassroots level. Jibril warned that achieving the state’s target of vaccinating over 80 percent of children will require sustained effort from the Ministry of Health, development partners and local authorities, especially in hard‑to‑reach areas. He pledged that the chairmen of all 25 local governments would align with the state health agenda to ensure every eligible child receives a vaccine.
Grace Odeyemi, UNICEF’s Social and Behaviour Change Team Lead, reiterated that vaccines remain one of the most effective tools for preventing childhood diseases and confirmed UNICEF’s support for Niger State in identifying and reaching zero‑dose children.
Community voices reinforced the message. Expectant mother Aisha Isa called on women to prioritise vaccination, citing the guidance and confidence she has received through consistent antenatal care. Nursing mother Katumi Aliyu shared her experience of regular clinic visits, noting that continued medical support has strengthened her trust in the health system.
The launch of World and African Immunisation Week in Niger State underscores the government’s determination to increase coverage, counter vaccine hesitancy and protect future generations from preventable illnesses. The coordinated effort among state officials, local leaders, international partners and community members aims to close immunisation gaps and move the state closer to its target of universal child vaccination.
