Edo First Lady’s Office, Stakeholders Emphasize Importance of Immunization

By Adesuwa Ehimuan

The Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, has joined key health stakeholders to call on Edo residents to prioritize the immunization of children. The call was made during a strategic meeting held at Government House, Benin City, focused on strengthening vaccine uptake across the state.

Speaking at the meeting, Mrs. Anani described immunization as one of the most effective measures parents and caregivers can take to protect children from life-threatening but preventable diseases. She stressed the crucial role of government in making vaccines readily available and ensuring parents are well-informed about their benefits.

According to her, “The Edo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Monday Okpebholo, has put the necessary structures in place to ensure that every child in Edo State has access to free and safe vaccines,” she noted.

Mrs. Anani further highlighted the need for intensified community engagement, especially in rural and hinter lands where resistance to vaccination may exist. She called for robust grassroots mobilization efforts to ensure that no child is left behind.

Also speaking, the Director of Disease Control at the Edo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Efeomo Eseigbe, emphasized the importance of vaccines in combating serious illnesses such as measles and rubella. He noted that a nationwide vaccination campaign targeting these diseases is scheduled for rollout in October 2025, with additional phases planned for January 2026.

Dr. Eseigbe commended the Office of the First Lady for its active role in sensitizing communities across all local government areas, ensuring widespread awareness and acceptance of vaccines. He added that the initiative also includes efforts to combat misconceptions and build public trust in the safety and effectiveness of vaccines.

In his contribution, Mr. Osawe Lawani, noted that while the vaccine programs have existed for some time, the government is now expanding access to reach more children. He acknowledged that many families previously faced challenges with affordability and availability, making this intervention critical.

He reiterated that the Office of the First Lady is working collaboratively with stakeholders across the 18 Local Government Areas to ensure effective message dissemination and readiness for the upcoming vaccination campaigns.

The meeting concluded with a shared commitment to work together to drive successful immunization initiatives and improve health outcomes for children and communities throughout Edo State.