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Mrs. Abimbola Fashola (L) applying the oral vaccine on an infant during the Second Round of the 2009 National Immunization Plus Days (NIPDS).


Mrs. Abimbola Fashola (M) flanked by healthcare workers, nursing mothers and infants during the 2nd Round of 2009 National Immunization Plus Days.

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Mar 27, 2009 - Second Round Of 2009 National Immunization Plus Days (NIPDS)

One of the main components of the Millennium Development Goals which the global community aim is to achieve by 2015 is the reduction in the number of children who die before their 5th anniversary after birth. For us to achieve this goal, efforts must be taken to address all the factors that contribute to child mortality among which Wild Polio Virus plays a major role.

Today, one of the major challenges which we face as a nation today is achieving the target of eradicating wild polio virus from our communities. Our nation still occupies the leading position among very few countries as the chief exporter of wild polio virus on the African continent and indeed the entire world. This means that we need to step up our efforts, as our children are at greatest risk of suffering permanent paralysis as a result of wild polio virus.

To turn around this ugly and avoidable condition, to secure Brighter Rewarding Future for our children, we must all ensure that no single child is left unimmunised. I believe we can achieve this if we decide to work as a team with renewed commitment, determination and sense of purpose for the sake of our future leaders.

It is heart-warming that we have recorded 37 percent and 7 percent increase in coverage between January and February 2009. However it is disheartening that during this same period 3 cases of wild polio virus were also detected in the State. This calls for greater commitment and cooperation from everyone, as we all are stakeholders in this very important matter that borders on the survival and healthy growth of our children.

I am using this opportunity to plead implore all our mothers, fathers and caregivers to ensure that their children and wards within the age of 0-5 years are immunised. Children can be immunised as many times as possible. I also appeal to community leaders especially our Royal fathers and community based organisations to please get more actively involved in this campaign which will be carried out from house to house. The vaccine is free, safe and effective.

We will continue to appreciate the contribution and support of the Federal Ministry of Health, the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, WHO, UNICEF and Rotary International towards ensuring the success of this campaign in Lagos State.

Worthy of commendation also is the effort of the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Jide Idris, the hardworking members of his team and the Chairman of Ojo Local Government, Hon. Yinka Durosinmi, the host of this flag off ceremony. It is my hope and prayer that this particular exercise will mark the beginning of the total eradication of Wild Polio Virus.

Distinguished ladies and gentlemen, it is on this note that I flag off this second round of 2009 National Immunization Plus Days campaign in Lagos State.

I thank you for your kind attention. God bless our children, God bless us all.

Eko o ni baje o

Her Excellency
Mrs. Abimbola Fashola
First Lady of Lagos State