The Gombe State government has intensified its fight against child-killer diseases, urging residents to actively participate in upcoming immunisation and healthcare initiatives.
Speaking at a media briefing on Tuesday, Nuhu Bile, state epidemiologist at the Ministry of Health, highlighted the importance of the 2025 Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health Week (MNCHW) in promoting the health and wellbeing of mothers and children across the state.
Bile reassured parents that all vaccines provided through the programme are safe and essential for protecting children against preventable diseases. He added that the state is launching a new round of immunisation to tackle circulating vaccine-derived polio, noting that the oral polio vaccine can be safely administered every three months to reach all children, including those missed in previous rounds.
“The effectiveness of our immunisation drive depends on community awareness and acceptance. Residents must understand that vaccines are safe, free, and vital for their children’s health”, he said.
The epidemiologist also emphasised the ministry’s partnership with media outlets to raise awareness and educate the public about immunisation benefits. He praised the community for its support during the recent measles-rubella vaccination campaign, which achieved a remarkable 98 per cent coverage.
Also speaking, the state nutrition officer, Muhammad Bawa, said the MNCHW would officially kick off on Friday in Balanga Local Government Area. He explained that the initiative aims to deliver a comprehensive health package, including vaccinations, antenatal care, and other primary healthcare services, to strengthen routine healthcare delivery in the state.
Speaking further, the deputy state health education officer, Raymond George, urged journalists and social media influencers to help amplify the immunisation message, encouraging communities to participate and ensuring higher vaccine coverage across Gombe.
With the MNCHW now underway, the Gombe State government called on every resident to support the campaign, ensuring that no child is left vulnerable to preventable diseases and that families benefit from essential healthcare services.
