Lagos Launches Technical Group for Measles-Rubella Vaccine Rollout

Lagos State has taken a significant step in child health with the inauguration of a Technical Working Group (TWG) dedicated to the introduction of the Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccine into its Routine Immunisation schedule. This milestone event took place at The Zone Hub, Gbagada, bringing together key health stakeholders and development partners to reinforce the State’s commitment to protecting children from vaccine-preventable diseases.

Dr. Ibrahim Akinwunmi Mustafa, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board (LSPHCB), described the inauguration as a landmark moment, highlighting that the MR vaccine rollout is a bold advancement in safeguarding children against measles and rubella. He emphasized the TWG’s vital role in coordinating planning, logistics, training, and communication to ensure a seamless and data-driven vaccination process. Dr. Mustafa also acknowledged the collaborative support of national and global partners such as the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), WHO, UNICEF, CHAI, and IVAC in strengthening the State’s immunisation framework.

The Director of Medical Services and Disease Control, Dr. Veronica Iwayemi, underscored the introduction of the MR vaccine as a major leap forward for Lagos State, urging continuous innovation and partnership to close immunisation gaps across local government areas.

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The initiative aligns with the administration of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu and Deputy Governor Dr. Kadri Obafemi Hamzat’s vision of “a healthy Lagos for a productive population,” demonstrating strategic investments in health infrastructure and system strengthening.

The MR vaccine administration in Lagos is set to begin in January 2026, aiming to immunize millions of children across all councils, enhancing child health and reducing mortality from these preventable diseases. The TWG will be the operational core driving this crucial public health effort with diligence and integrity to secure better health outcomes for Lagosians.