By Sunday Iduh
Sequel to the ongoing National Immunization Plus Days Campaign (NIPD), the Benue State Governor, Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia has charged the Directors, General Services and Administration (DGSAs) of the 23 local government areas to adequately support the exercise.
The governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Barrister Sam Ode stated this last Thursday during the state flag off of the 2023 Immunization Programme at the Family Support (FSP) Clinic, Kwararafa Quarters, Makurdi.
Governor Alia said, “Directors, General Services and Administration of the 23 LGAs must demonstrate commitment and support to this campaign with needed logistics support, flag-off of the campaign in their LGAs, supervise the vaccination and most importantly, attend the daily evening review meetings for the four days of the exercise to review progress together with other stakeholders”
He explained that children represent the future of the state and it is therefore, the solemn duty of government to ensure their well-being and safeguard their health.
“The NIPDs campaign is not just about administering vaccines; it is about securing their future, promoting a healthy population and strengthening the resilience of our healthcare system. Our goal is to ensure that many eligible children as possible receive the necessary vaccinations
“As we kick off the immunization campaign, let us remember that vaccines are not just shots; they are shields against preventable diseases.
They are shields that protect our children from suffering, ensure a brighter and healthier future for them.
Let us rally around this important cause and make this campaign a resounding success. Healthy children are the foundation of a prosperous and vibrant Benue State”.
The Commissioner for Health and Human Services, Dr Yanman Ortese described immunization as a tool for ensuring healthy children, stating that the state is committed to the wellbeing of children and delivery of quality health care.
He commended the governor for his dedication to the wellbeing of the people and called on all the stakeholders and development partners not relent in their efforts.
Earlier, the Executive Secretary, Benue State Primary Health Care Board, Grace Wende disclosed that immunization is one of the most effective public health interventions known to humanity and has played a pivotal role in reducing the burden of vaccine-preventable diseases as well as improving the quality of life for countless individuals across the world.
She added that Benue State recognizes the critical importance of immunization in safeguarding the health of her children and community with minimal outbreaks of communicable diseases.
“The National Immunization Plus Days (NIPDs) is a testament to our commitment to ensuring that every child, regardless of their socio-economic background, has access to life-saving vaccines. It is a collaborative effort between our state government, the federal government, and our invaluable partners, including the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and various non-governmental organizations, who have worked tirelessly to make this programme a reality”
