The World Health Organization (WHO) has lauded the successful completion of Stream 2 of Enugu State’s Measles–Rubella Integrated Campaign, which vaccinated over 2.1 million children against measles, rubella, and cervical cancer.
The campaign which began on February 4, was implemented in partnership with Nigeria’s National Primary Health Care Development Agency, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), and other collaborators.
In a statement on Wednesday, the agency said, “Every child deserves protection from measles and rubella. Yet too many are still being missed, particularly in underserved communities. Enugu State has now successfully concluded Stream 2 of the campaign, reaching more than 2.1 million children with lifesaving vaccines.”
WHO highlighted the role of over 60 independent monitors, deployed across all local government areas, to ensure no child was left unvaccinated.
“These monitors play a critical role: identifying missed children, improving real‑time data quality, flagging risks early, and ensuring equitable access to vaccines,” the agency said. “Their work helps ensure no child is left behind.”
WHO also acknowledged the contribution of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, noting that the partnership “helps strengthen monitoring systems and expand access to essential vaccines.”
The agency stressed that campaigns like this are crucial for preventing measles and rubella outbreaks, particularly in underserved communities.
Key figures in the operation included Ifeyinwa Ani-Osheku, Chief Executive Officer and Executive Secretary of the Enugu State Primary Health Care Development Agency, who confirmed that the campaign achieved 100 per cent coverage of the targeted population.
One of the monitors, Faith O., an NYSC corps member, shared her experience: “I now understand how vital vaccines are. Today, I helped ensure no child in my community was missed,” underscoring the importance of community participation in public health efforts. WHO also recognized the contribution of Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, for strengthening monitoring systems and expanding access to essential vaccines.
Meanwhile, the state government has advised parents and guardians to continue ensuring that children receive routine immunizations and to report any health concerns promptly.
It also reaffirmed its commitment to sustaining high vaccination coverage, strengthening public health infrastructure, and collaborating with national and international partners to protect children across Enugu.
