The Northern Traditional Rulers Council (NTRC), led by the Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, has declared support for the ongoing integrated Measles-Rubella vaccination campaign in Taraba State and across Nigeria.

Speaking at the official flag-off of the campaign in Taraba over the weekend, the Monarch of Ibi, Alhaji Abubakar Sahilu Danbawuro III, urged parents and caregivers to ensure their children receive the vaccine.

He reaffirmed the commitment of traditional rulers to the success of the exercise, describing it as a crucial step toward protecting children from preventable diseases.

Danbawuro commended the state government for its proactive measures to eliminate measles and rubella, adding that the traditional institution was determined to “leave no stone unturned” in ensuring that no eligible child is left out of the campaign.

Health officials who spoke with The Guardian expressed optimism that the backing of traditional rulers would significantly boost community participation and enhance the overall impact of the vaccination drive.

As of the time of filing this report, the vaccination exercise was progressing smoothly across the state.

Vaccinators in several communities who spoke with our correspondent described the level of compliance as “very encouraging” in all areas visited so far.