The Taraba State Government has announced plans to vaccinate 1.6 million children during the forthcoming Measles-Rubella vaccination campaign, scheduled for October 18–27, 2025.

The disclosure was made at a one-day stakeholders’ meeting in Jalingo, organized by the State Primary Health Care Development Agency (TSPHCDA) in collaboration with key ministries, departments, agencies (MDAs), and the Social Mobilization Network.

Speaking on behalf of TSPHCDA, the Director of Community Health, Chido Zakari, said the campaign would cover all 16 local government areas and special development areas of the state.

He confirmed that arrangements had been finalized in partnership with the state Ministry of Health and development partners, including UNICEF, to ensure a successful exercise.

Zakari cited the recent success of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign as motivation for the upcoming effort, calling on stakeholders to intensify mobilization to reach every eligible child.

State Immunization Officer, Dr. Tsamu Yaro, emphasized that Nigeria continues to contribute significantly to the global burden of measles, rubella, and circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVPV2). He said the campaign is designed to close immunity gaps.

“The Measles-Rubella vaccine offers broader protection than the measles-only vaccine,” Yaro said. “It not only protects children who have never received rubella immunization but also reduces the risk of congenital rubella syndrome.”

Representatives from MDAs and the Chigeri Foundation pledged support for the campaign, with the foundation committing to engage traditional rulers to mobilize communities.

Health officials reassured the public of the vaccine’s safety and effectiveness and urged parents and guardians to ensure that no child is left out.

The exercise is part of a nationwide effort to reduce vaccine-preventable diseases and improve child health outcomes across Nigeria.