Nigeria has embarked on a groundbreaking public health initiative, the largest integrated vaccination campaign in its history, aimed at protecting over 109 million children and adolescents from a wide range of preventable diseases. This ambitious effort is designed to close immunity gaps and strengthen the country’s health system by delivering multiple life-saving vaccines and treatments in a unified, nationwide push. Children between the ages of 9 months and 14 years are the primary focus, with the campaign offering protection against measles, rubella, polio, and human papillomavirus (HPV), alongside routine immunizations. In certain regions, the campaign also includes malaria treatments and interventions for neglected tropical diseases, ensuring a comprehensive approach to child health.
The campaign is being rolled out in phases to ensure maximum reach and effectiveness. The first phase targets 20 high-risk states in northern Nigeria, along with Oyo State in the southwest, where disease burden and immunization gaps are most pronounced. The second phase, scheduled to begin in January 2026, will extend coverage to the remaining southern states. Vaccines and treatments are being delivered through a combination of fixed health posts, temporary outreach centers, and mobile “sweep teams” that go door-to-door to reach children in remote and underserved communities. This multi-pronged strategy is designed to overcome logistical challenges and ensure that no child is left behind.
Leadership and coordination of the campaign are being spearheaded by the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), with robust support from international partners including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, Gavi, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. The campaign was officially launched in Abuja by First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, who underscored its importance in securing a lifetime of health and opportunity for Nigeria’s youth. Her presence and advocacy signal strong political commitment to the campaign’s success and to the broader goal of health equity.
This integrated campaign marks a historic milestone not only for Nigeria but for Africa as a whole. It is the continent’s largest coordinated health intervention of its kind, reflecting a shift toward more efficient, impactful public health strategies. By combining multiple disease prevention efforts into a single campaign, Nigeria is setting a precedent for how countries can streamline resources, reduce costs, and improve health outcomes on a massive scale. More than a temporary initiative, this campaign represents a long-term investment in the health and future of Nigeria’s children, laying the foundation for stronger health systems and greater resilience against future outbreaks.
Families across Nigeria are encouraged to participate actively in the campaign and ensure their children receive the full suite of vaccines and treatments available. The success of this initiative depends not only on government and partner efforts but also on community engagement and trust. As Nigeria moves forward with this bold and visionary campaign, it offers hope and inspiration for other nations seeking to protect their youngest citizens and build a healthier future for all.