KNSG ,UNICEF and Partners Launches Historic Mass Campaign Targeting 7.8 Million Children for Measles-Rubella and Polio Vaccination
Kano State, in partnership with UNICEF and other global health Partners, has launched integrated vaccination campaign set to reach millions of children across the state. The exercise, scheduled for October 6–16, 2025, is projected to be the largest of its kind in sub-Saharan Africa.
The initiative seeks to vaccinate 7.8 million children aged 9–14 years against measles-rubella and 3.9 million children under five against polio. Alongside these, routine immunizations including hepatitis and HPV vaccines will be provided, as well as treatments for neglected tropical diseases such as onchocerciasis.
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Speaking at a media dialogue in Kano, Dr. Ahmed Tijjani, Director of Disease Control and Immunisation at the Kano State Primary Healthcare Management Board, described the campaign as “a comprehensive health package designed to protect children and communities from life-threatening diseases.”
Representing the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr. Maryam H. Umar called on journalists to play a pivotal role in public sensitization:
“Our message is clear—we depend on you, the media, to share accurate information on the benefits of vaccination and to guide parents and caregivers on where to access these free, safe, and effective vaccines.”
UNICEF’s Chief of Field Office in Kano, Mr. Rahama Rahood Farah, emphasized the role of media and community mobilizers in ensuring full coverage:
“This campaign cannot succeed without you. We urge everyone to help mobilize parents, caregivers, and community leaders so that no child is left behind.
“ Vaccines are safe, effective, and free, but they must reach every child in every household. Journalists, religious leaders, and traditional rulers are powerful voices that can dispel misinformation and build trust in the campaign.
“UNICEF believes no child should suffer from a preventable disease, and this campaign is a critical step toward that vision. Together, we can protect our children, strengthen families, and give communities a healthier future.”
The campaign, backed by the National Primary Health Care Management Agency , WHO, Gavi, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, civil society organizations, and the Kano State Government, has been equipped with 4.6 million doses of the novel oral polio vaccine (nOPV2) and 4.5 million doses of the bivalent oral polio vaccine (bOPV).
This Kano compaighn is part of a broader national plan to immunize 106 million children across Nigeria in two phases, with Kano leading the first phase.
The integrated campaign reflects a strong coalition’s commitment to eradicating preventable diseases, protecting children, and strengthening Nigeria’s public health system.