Lagos State Launches 2025 Polio Vaccination Campaign

Lagos State Launches 2025 Polio Vaccination Campaign

The Lagos State Government has launched the 2025 Polio Outbreak Response Campaign, reaffirming its dedication to eradicating polio and safeguarding the health of children across the state. The campaign was officially flagged off at the Simpson Primary Healthcare Center by Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, the First Lady of Lagos State, represented by Mrs. Widad Jumoke Mustafa, a member of the Committee of Wives of Lagos State Officials (COWLSO).

Speaking at the event, the First Lady emphasized the state’s commitment to maintaining its polio-free status. She highlighted the importance of the vaccination campaign in preventing poliomyelitis, a disease that can cause lifelong paralysis or even death.

“This initiative ensures the future of countless children in Lagos State. The health and well-being of our children remain a top priority for this administration,” she said, urging parents, community leaders, and stakeholders to support the campaign by ensuring eligible children receive the vaccine.

The campaign targets children aged 0-59 months, with vaccination teams administering the Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV) to prevent virus transmission.

Dr. Kemi Ogunyemi, the Special Adviser on Health, commended Lagosians for their cooperation in previous campaigns and called on parents to present their children for vaccination. She also appreciated healthcare workers and partners for their dedication to the fight against polio.

Mrs. Omolola Rashidat Essien, Chairman of Lagos Mainland Local Government, underscored the importance of immunization in protecting children from polio and other preventable diseases.

“Today marks a significant milestone in our efforts to ensure the safety and health of our children. Immunization remains a crucial step in achieving this goal,” she said.

Dr. Abimbola Bowale, the Supervising Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, stressed the life-saving significance of immunization.

“All children aged 0-59 months need multiple doses of the polio vaccine to ensure full protection. Every child missed is a potential risk for the poliovirus to spread. The vaccine is safe, effective, and vital in keeping our communities polio-free,” he stated.

Dr. Bowale also outlined strategies for the campaign's success, including fixed post teams at healthcare centers, house-to-house visits, and a transit strategy to vaccinate children at schools, places of worship, motor parks, and other public venues.

The event concluded with the official launch of the campaign by Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, symbolizing a renewed effort to maintain Lagos State’s polio-free status.

The Lagos State Government remains steadfast in its commitment to improving healthcare delivery and protecting children through routine immunization and innovative health programs.

Public Affairs Unit
Lagos State Primary Health Care Board