Nigeria targets 106m children in major measles, polio vaccination drive

Nigeria has launched a large-scale integrated vaccination campaign targeting over 106 million children against measles, rubella, and polio, in what authorities describe as one of the biggest health initiatives in the country’s history.

The drive, which began on October 6, will be implemented in two phases — starting with 20 high-risk northern states and Oyo State, before expanding to the remaining southern states in January 2026.

Children aged 0–14 years will receive measles and rubella vaccines, while those under five will be vaccinated against polio. Health workers will reach households through fixed posts, temporary outreach centers, and mobile “sweep teams,” ensuring coverage even in remote areas.

The campaign also integrates routine immunization and child health services, including seasonal malaria prevention and treatment for neglected tropical diseases, in line with Nigeria’s “Primary Health Care Under One Roof” policy.

“Vaccines are safe, and they save lives,” said Ali Pate, Minister of Health and Social Welfare. “As a parent, I know no one would refuse something that protects their child. We deeply appreciate our health workers for their resilience and commitment.”

Continued Outbreaks

The initiative responds to continued outbreaks of measles, rubella, and circulating variant poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) in Nigeria and neighboring countries. Nigeria is collaborating with Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and the Central African Republic through a regional action plan to eliminate these diseases by 2026.

Health authorities say the rollout builds on two recent vaccination rounds in 11 northern states, which reached 3.1 million children, provided nutrition supplements to half a million, and delivered anti-malaria interventions to 150,000.

“Nigeria’s integrated approach sets a strong example for the continent,” said Mohammed Janabi, WHO Regional Director for Africa. “By combining efforts against multiple diseases, we’re moving closer to a future where no child dies from preventable illnesses.”

The campaign introduces a new combined measles-rubella vaccine, replacing the older single-dose measles shot. Measles remains one of the world’s most contagious diseases and a leading cause of death among undernourished children, while rubella poses severe risks for pregnant women.

Led by the Nigerian government with support from WHO, UNICEF, Gavi, Rotary International, the Gates Foundation, and the Africa CDC, the effort aims to strengthen health systems through better data management, transparent payments for frontline workers, and improved vaccine logistics.

Authorities expect the campaign to conclude in December 2025, helping Nigeria close immunity gaps and accelerate progress toward universal health coverage.