By Anamati Inyang November 7, 2025
Some Fulani residents in Kogi State have reportedly rejected the ongoing Measles, Polio, and HPV vaccination campaign, part of the state’s 2025 Integrated Immunization Programme designed to protect children and adolescents from vaccine-preventable diseases.
The Kogi State Government had recently launched the Integrated Measles-Rubella, Polio, and HPV Vaccination Campaign — a major public health initiative aimed at safeguarding the health and future of children across the state.
A visit by Vanguard to Kabba/Bunu Local Government Area showed high participation among indigenous residents, but revealed resistance within Fulani communities.
The Local Government Immunisation Officer, Mr. Atyodele Raphael, confirmed that the refusal of some Fulani residents has slowed down efforts to meet vaccination targets.
“Even with the help of interpreters, we’ve encountered repeated resistance. Many Fulani women insist on seeking their husbands’ permission before allowing their children to be vaccinated, but most of the men are away,” Raphael explained.
He added that despite encouraging families to return after consulting their husbands, many still declined participation. However, he expressed optimism that ongoing sensitization would yield positive results before the campaign ends. Kabba/Bunu LGA, according to him, is targeting over 66,000 children for immunization.
During the official flag-off at Kpata Primary Health Centre in Lokoja, Governor Usman Ododo reiterated his administration’s commitment to protecting children and young girls through effective vaccination coverage.
“This campaign represents our renewed commitment to life, health, and the future of Kogi State,” Ododo stated. “The vaccines are free, safe, and effective — no child should be left behind.”
He also urged parents, caregivers, and community leaders to support the campaign while commending UNICEF, health workers, and development partners for their contributions to the success of the programme.
Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abdulazeez Adams Adeiza, commended the governor’s leadership and lauded the growing public confidence in revitalized Primary Health Centres across the state.
Similarly, the Executive Director of the Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Mu’azu Musa Omeiza, revealed that the campaign targets 1.9 million children aged nine months to 14 years for Measles and Rubella vaccination, with additional doses for Polio and HPV.
He noted that the exercise, which runs from October 6 to 15, enjoys technical and logistical support from UNICEF and other development partners.
