By; Bashir Hassan Abubakar
As Bauchi State prepares for the statewide Measles-Rubella vaccination campaign, the Sultan Foundation for Peace and Development, in collaboration with the Bauchi State Primary Health Care Development Board (BASPHCDB), has organized a one-day sensitization meeting with religious leaders to boost demand generation for vaccines.
In his welcome address, the Executive Chairman of BASPHCDB, Dr. Rilwanu Mohammed, underscored the critical role of religious leaders in educating caregivers and communities about the importance of the Measles-Rubella vaccination exercise. He emphasized that their support and active participation are vital for the campaign’s success.
Speaking in the same vein, the Emir of Dass and Bauchi State Representative on the Northern Traditional Leaders Committee on Primary Health Care, Alhaji Usman Bilyaminu Othman, reaffirmed the commitment of traditional institutions to ensuring the success of the immunization campaign.
He urged religious leaders to use their platforms to enlighten followers on the benefits of vaccination against measles, rubella, and other childhood killer diseases, noting that a healthy population guarantees a brighter future.
Goodwill messages were delivered by representatives of the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, Chigari Foundation, AFENET, and the religious leaders’ forum, all pledging collaboration to ensure a smooth and impactful exercise.
Our correspondent reports that the Measles-Rubella vaccination campaign is scheduled to commence on October 18, 2025, and will run for ten days across Bauchi State
Also speaking, Dr. Ali Samaila, representing the Sultan Foundation for Peace and Development, highlighted key responsibilities expected of religious leaders during the campaign, including building trust within communities, mobilizing participation, countering misinformation, and strengthening partnerships with health authorities. He assured the Foundation’s continued support towards achieving the campaign objectives.
