The Akwa Ibom State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding the health and future of children across the state through the introduction of Measles–Rubella (MR) vaccine into the state's routine immunisation.
The Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno on Tuesday, February 3, 2026, stated this during the official flag-off exercise to mark the commencement of a statewide vaccination campaign scheduled to run from February 4 to 13, 2026.
Speaking at the Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Council Secretariat, the Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Lady Helen Eno Obareki, who conveyed Governor Eno's message through the President of the Eket Senatorial District Women Forum, Mrs Idara Akpan, said the introduction of the vaccine is targeted at combating Measles–Rubella, a highly contagious viral diseases with serious health consequences, called on caregivers to take advantage of exercise, assuring that the vaccine is safe, effective, free and critical to securing a healthy future for children.
"It is with a profound sense of duty to the future of our state that I stand here today to flag off this critical health intervention, the introduction of the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine into our routine immunisation schedule. This month, from Wednesday 4th to Saturday 13th, we are embarking on a mission to erect a shield of protection around our children. Measles and Rubella are not just medical terms; they are viral threats that can steal the sight, the hearing, and even the lives of our little ones if we do not act."
"To every mother, father, and caregiver listening to me: these vaccines are safe, they are free, and they are essential. Do not let rumours or misinformation rob your child of a healthy future. From tomorrow 4th until the 13th of February, please visit the nearest health facility or designated post. Let us raise awareness and our voices until every eligible child in Akwa Ibom is reached."
The Governor commended the Federal Government for its strategic leadership through the coordinating Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the Akwa Ibom State Primary Health Care Development Agency (AKSPHCDA) in collaboration with the State Ministry of Health, development partners and healthcare workers for their dedication and support, describing them as partners in delivering sustainable healthcare outcomes.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr Ekem John, disclosed that the state’s healthcare commitment has increased from 4 to 11 per cent, underscoring the government’s resolve to strengthen the health sector. He urged traditional rulers and village heads to mobilise those eligible through town criers, while encouraging parents to disregard myths surrounding immunisation, particularly claims linking vaccines to infertility.
Also speaking, the Secretary of the Akwa Ibom State Primary Health Care Development Agency, AKSPHCDA, Dr Eno Attah, who described the campaign as an integrated intervention, noted that it would be the first time it would be widely administered to children in the state. She stressed that the vaccine certified by WHO and NAFDAC is safe, effective and will be available at designated vaccination posts, schools, places of worship and primary healthcare facilities.
In his remarks, the Chairman of Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Council, Mr Edidiong Inyang, expressed gratitude to Governor Eno for choosing the area for the flag-off and pledged the council’s support towards the success of the campaign, especially in rural communities.
The Paramount Ruler of Ibesikpo Asutan Local Government Area, Edidem Clement Ekpenyong, described health as a fundamental prerequisite for longevity and development, called on communities to fully embrace the campaign.
Goodwill messages were delivered by stakeholders including the Chairman, Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly Committee on Health and Member representing Ibiono Ibom State Constituency, Mr Moses Essien, representatives of UNICEF, National Primary Health Care Development Agency, NPHCDA, the World Health Organization, WHO, Christian Health Association of Nigeria, CHAN and other partners who all reiterated their commitment to collaboration and urged parents and caregivers to ensure eligible children are vaccinated.
The event drew government officials, traditional rulers, health professionals, development partners and community members, all united in support of improved child health and disease prevention across the state.
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