The Lagos State Primary Health Care Board (LSPHCB) has announced that it has achieved 89 per cent vaccination coverage of children targeted in the ongoing statewide immunisation exercise.
The Board disclosed this in a statement issued on Thursday, signed by its Permanent Secretary, Dr Ibrahim Mustafa, who described the milestone as a reflection of the state government’s commitment to safeguarding the health and future of children in Lagos. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
The campaign, which commenced on January 27, is a week-long Measles-Rubella and Routine Immunisation exercise being conducted across all local government areas (LGAs) and local council development areas (LCDAs) in the state.
Mustafa attributed the progress recorded to strong collaboration among government agencies, healthcare workers, community leaders, development partners, and parents.
“The vaccination of 89 per cent of our targeted children clearly shows that Lagosians understand the importance of immunisation in safeguarding the lives of their children,” he said.
“While this success is encouraging, it does not mark the end of the process. Every child counts, and we are committed to ensuring that no eligible child is left unprotected.”
He revealed that the Board would commence an intensive mop-up exercise to reach children who were missed during the initial phase of the campaign.
According to him, some children were not vaccinated due to factors such as absence from home, movement, misinformation, or logistical challenges.
The mop-up phase, he explained, will involve house-to-house vaccination, expanded community outreach, and increased engagement at health facilities to ensure that all missed children receive the required vaccines.
Mustafa reassured residents that routine immunisation in Lagos remains safe, effective, and free of charge, stressing that all vaccines used are approved by relevant regulatory authorities and meet national and international safety standards.
“Vaccines protect children from dangerous diseases such as measles, polio, diphtheria, whooping cough, and tuberculosis,” he said.
“These illnesses can lead to severe complications, long-term disability, or death, yet they are entirely preventable through timely vaccination.”
He emphasised that immunisation is not just an individual decision but a collective responsibility necessary to protect communities through herd immunity.
The Permanent Secretary further assured parents and caregivers that trained health professionals would continue to administer vaccines in line with strict standards, including proper storage, handling, and documentation.
He called on parents, guardians, religious and traditional leaders, as well as community influencers, to actively support the campaign by encouraging families to vaccinate their children and by helping to counter myths and misinformation surrounding vaccines.
“Parents and caregivers should take full advantage of this opportunity by bringing their children to the nearest primary health care centre or welcoming health workers into their homes,” Mustafa said.
“Vaccination is one of the greatest gifts you can give a child — a healthy beginning and a stronger future.”