The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has declared his full support for the upcoming nationwide Measles-Rubella vaccination campaign.

According to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), the Federal Government will officially begin the campaign in October, with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) leading the effort alongside other health organizations.

Speaking to journalists in Abuja, the Ooni urged Nigerians to get involved and help spread awareness about the importance of the campaign.

“Measles and Rubella are not far-off issues — they are serious health threats taking young lives across communities. Thankfully, these diseases can be prevented through vaccination,” he said.

He explained that the campaign aims to vaccinate children between the ages of nine months and 14 years, adding that it is more than just a health program — it’s a mission to protect the future of Nigerian children.

“The nationwide rollout will help reduce child deaths and improve the country’s overall health standards,” he added.

Oba Ogunwusi also called on all Nigerians to work together and support efforts in the health sector to provide vaccines for diseases that can be prevented.

“I strongly support this vaccination campaign and urge parents, caregivers, school authorities, and community leaders to ensure our children take part. It’s a step towards safeguarding their future,” he said.

He also appealed to fellow traditional rulers, religious leaders, and community influencers to help spread the message in their communities.

“Educate people, correct wrong beliefs, and encourage every parent to vaccinate their child,” he emphasized.

The monarch further pledged to use the influence of traditional institutions across the country to make sure the campaign reaches every household.

“We’ve united before during the COVID-19 pandemic — we can do it again. We will keep supporting the NPHCDA’s health initiatives,” he said.

NAN reports that this vaccination campaign is part of Nigeria’s broader goal to eliminate measles and rubella in line with international health targets and sustainable development objectives.

The initiative has gained strong backing from government agencies and global health partners.

The Ooni’s endorsement is expected to help boost public confidence and encourage participation, especially in rural and hard-to-reach communities where traditional leaders have strong influence.

(NAN)