The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Ebonyi State Chapter, has expressed strong support for the ongoing Measles–Rubella (MR) vaccination campaign in the state, describing it as a vital step toward protecting children’s lives and strengthening long-term public health security.
In a statement released on Monday, the Chairperson of NAWOJ in Ebonyi State said the Measles–Rubella vaccine is safe, effective, and critical to preventing outbreaks of two highly contagious but vaccine-preventable diseases that continue to pose a threat to children across Nigeria.
“The Measles–Rubella vaccine has been proven globally to be safe and effective. Vaccinating our children is not just about protecting them individually, but about safeguarding entire communities and securing a healthier future for our state,” she said.
She explained that measles and rubella remain leading causes of preventable childhood illness and death, particularly in low- and middle-income settings, adding that widespread immunisation is consistent with recommendations by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF).
According to WHO and UNICEF, achieving and sustaining high vaccination coverage is essential to preventing outbreaks, reducing child mortality, and strengthening resilient health systems.
The NAWOJ Chairperson commended the Ebonyi State Government for its continued investment in preventive healthcare and child-focused programmes, describing the MR vaccination campaign as a clear demonstration of political will and commitment to child survival.
“We commend the Ebonyi State Government for prioritising preventive healthcare. This campaign shows a genuine commitment to protecting the lives of children and strengthening the healthcare system at the grassroots,” she noted.
She also praised health workers, community mobilizers, and volunteers who are working across the 13 local government areas of the state to ensure that eligible children are reached, including those in hard-to-reach and rural communities.
NAWOJ pledged its full support for the success of the vaccination exercise, stating that the association would intensify community engagement, public enlightenment, and media advocacy to boost awareness and acceptance of the vaccine.
“As women journalists, we recognise our responsibility to provide accurate information and counter misinformation that discourages parents from vaccinating their children. We will continue to use our platforms to educate communities and promote trust in vaccines,” the Chairperson said.
The association urged parents, caregivers, and guardians across Ebonyi State to cooperate with health officials and take advantage of the free vaccination exercise, stressing that immunisation is a shared responsibility.
“A healthy child is the foundation of a healthy society. No child should suffer or die from diseases that can be prevented through vaccination,” the statement added.
NAWOJ reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for policies and programmes that promote maternal and child health, peace, and sustainable development in Ebonyi State. The association pledged to continue partnering with government agencies, development partners, and civil society organisations to advance public health initiatives that align with national and global health goals.
