Introduction of the measles-rubella vaccine

I am delighted to welcome you all to this momentous occasion, marking the introduction of the Measles Rubella vaccine in Katsina State. Today, we take a significant step towards protecting the health and well-being of our children and ensuring a brighter future for our state.

As we all know, measles and rubella are highly infectious diseases that can have severe consequences, particularly for our children. These diseases can lead to serious health complications, including blindness, deafness, and even death. However, with the introduction of the Measles Rubella vaccine, we can significantly reduce the risk of these diseases and protect our children from these devastating consequences.

The government of Katsina State is committed to providing quality healthcare services to our citizens, particularly our children. We recognize that healthcare is a fundamental human right, and it is our responsibility to ensure that our citizens have access to the healthcare services they need.

Our Administration has made significant strides in bolstering primary health care. A substantial investment has fueled numerous projects, including the revitalization of over 260 primary health care facilities across all the 34 LGAs. These efforts involve upgrading and renovating PHCs, providing equipment, construction of staff quarters, solar lightening and tricycle ambulance. We have also solarized the state cold store, and construct the PHC coordination center all in an effort to strengthen immunizations in the state.

Recognizing the vulnerability of certain populations, the administration has enrolled 28,813 children under the age of 5 years into health insurance and procured Ready-to-Use Therapeutic Food (RUTF) for the C-MAM program for Management of Acute Malnutrition. The government has also demonstrated its commitment to addressing health crises by allocating funds for epidemic prone diseases like Diphtheria cholera and Cerebro Spinal Meningitis outbreak response and implementing a Free Medicare Scheme.

The introduction of the Measles Rubella vaccine is a testament to our shared commitment to improving the health and well-being of our children in the State and the Country at large.

I would like to express my gratitude to our partners, including the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and other stakeholders who have worked tirelessly to make this vaccine available to our state. Their support and collaboration have been invaluable, and we look forward to continuing our partnership in the years to come.

Call to Action

As your Governor, the health and well-being of our people, especially our children, remain my top priority. I strongly endorse the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine, set to be introduced by the Federal Government, the State Government and development partners in October 2025.

Measles and Rubella infections are highly contagious diseases that can cause deafness, blindness, heart defects, brain damage, and even death in children. Thankfully, the Measles-Rubella (MR) Vaccine provides safe and effective protection

I urge all parents, guardians, and caregivers to ensure that children aged 9 months to 15 years receive this lifesaving vaccine during the campaign. Vaccination not only protects our children but also strengthens our economy and healthcare system.

In line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of His Excellency, President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, GCFR, our government is committed to making these vaccines available and accessible. I call on our traditional rulers, religious leaders, health workers, and community influencers to support this campaign and ensure full coverage.

Together, we can eliminate Measles and Rubella from Katsina State.

Thank you, and may ALLAHU SUBHANAHU WATA’ALA bless Katsina State.