Nigeria Set for Second Round of Integrated Vaccination Campaign Across 11 High-Risk States

The Federal Government has announced plans to roll out the second round of the integrated vaccination campaign across 11 high-risk states between September 11 and 14, 2025. The initiative, endorsed at the 151st National Economic Council (NEC) meeting chaired by Vice-President Kashim Shettima, was disclosed by Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe State while briefing journalists at the State House, Abuja.

According to Yahaya, who also serves as Chairman of the Northern Governors’ Forum, the campaign is part of Nigeria’s ongoing efforts to eradicate vaccine-preventable diseases and safeguard children’s health. It will target children aged 0–14 years, with a focus on measles, rubella, polio, and other major public health concerns.

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Target Group and Diseases Covered

The campaign will deliver vaccines against measles, rubella, and polio, alongside seasonal malaria chemoprevention and interventions for neglected tropical diseases. By integrating multiple health services, the government seeks to maximize outreach and reduce logistical costs.

Governor Yahaya noted that although Nigeria was declared polio-free in 2020, a new variant of the disease has emerged in recent years, particularly in the Northwest and along porous borders with Chad and Cameroon. This resurgence has raised fresh concerns, making renewed vaccination efforts crucial.

Data shared during the NEC meeting showed significant progress in reducing polio cases. The number of recorded cases dropped from 78 in the 33rd week of 2024 to 42 cases in 2025. States like Kano and Kaduna recorded impressive declines, achieving reductions of 85% and 84% respectively.

The October nationwide campaign will build on these gains, ensuring expanded coverage for vulnerable children who remain at risk.

Coordination and Post-Campaign Reviews

To guarantee the success of the campaign, NEC emphasized the importance of strong coordination among states. Governor Yahaya revealed that deputy governors, who chair the State Task Force on Immunization, have been directed to convene at least two weeks before the next round of campaigns. This measure is seen as particularly crucial for high-risk states such as Kano, Jigawa, and Sokoto, where effective planning can make the difference between success and failure.

Additionally, post-campaign reviews have been recommended at multiple levels. State Commissioners of Health and Executive Secretaries of Primary Health Care Development Agencies are expected to lead these reviews to identify gaps and develop mop-up strategies. At the local government level, Chairmen will be responsible for convening review sessions to ensure that no community is left behind.

These mechanisms, Yahaya stressed, will help achieve more comprehensive vaccination coverage while also ensuring accountability in implementation.

Security and Funding Support

Recognizing the security challenges in parts of northern Nigeria, NEC directed security agencies to provide adequate coverage for the vaccination teams, especially in volatile areas like Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kaduna. In the past, health workers have faced threats from banditry and insurgency, making security a key determinant of campaign success.

Funding was also highlighted as a critical factor. NEC urged the Accountant General of the Federation to expedite the release of funds to support smooth operations during the immunization drive. Adequate and timely funding will enable the procurement of vaccines, logistics, and allowances for frontline health workers who will be deployed across difficult terrains.

Lessons from the First Round

The upcoming campaign follows the first round of the integrated vaccination initiative, which recorded substantial success. Approximately 2.7 million children were reached across northern Nigeria, achieving an impressive coverage rate of 83%.

The first phase focused on 11 high-risk states that have historically borne the greatest burden of polio: Bauchi, Borno, Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Sokoto, Yobe, Zamfara, and Niger. This success provided the foundation for the upcoming phase, which aims to consolidate gains and expand immunity against multiple diseases.

Public health experts say that the integrated approach—combining vaccines for measles, rubella, and polio with interventions against malaria and neglected tropical diseases—was a game-changer. Not only did it streamline resources, but it also increased acceptance among communities, as parents saw greater value in a one-stop health campaign.

Sustaining Momentum Toward Disease Eradication

Despite progress, health authorities acknowledge that Nigeria’s battle against vaccine-preventable diseases is far from over. The re-emergence of polio variants underscores the need for vigilance, especially in border communities with limited surveillance. Experts also warn that declining vaccination confidence in some areas, driven by misinformation, could pose a challenge if not tackled effectively.

The federal government, in collaboration with state governments and international partners, is working to ensure that vaccination campaigns are sustained and inclusive. The involvement of local government authorities, community leaders, and security agencies is expected to strengthen the reach of the program and improve acceptance.

Governor Yahaya emphasized that the integrated campaign reflects Nigeria’s commitment to protecting children from preventable illnesses. “This initiative is not just about vaccines, but about securing the future of our children and ensuring that no child is left vulnerable to diseases that can be prevented,” he said.

As the September campaign draws closer, preparations are intensifying across the 11 high-risk states. With lessons from the first phase, improved coordination, and stronger security arrangements, health officials are optimistic about surpassing previous coverage levels.

If successful, the second round could bring Nigeria closer to permanently eliminating the resurgence of polio while simultaneously reducing the burden of measles, rubella, malaria, and neglected tropical diseases.

For millions of Nigerian children, the integrated vaccination campaign represents more than a public health intervention—it is a lifeline for a healthier future.