Taraba First Lady urges routine immunisation to protect children

The First Lady of Taraba State, Mrs Agyin Agbu Kefas, has called on mothers and communities to prioritise routine immunisation as a critical step in safeguarding the health of children across the state.

She made the appeal during a state-level advocacy campaign on routine immunisation and primary health care held on Wednesday in Jalingo, the state capital.

Mrs Agyin Agbu Kefas acknowledged recent improvements in immunisation coverage and access to primary healthcare services, commending health workers for their resilience and dedication, particularly in rural communities.

She, however, expressed concern over the persistence of zero-dose children—those who have not received any vaccines—and urged stakeholders to intensify efforts to ensure no child is left behind.

As part of efforts to strengthen grassroots awareness, Mrs Kefas launched the “Mama Ambassadors” initiative.

The programme, DAILY POST learnt, is designed to mobilise women across the 16 local government areas of Taraba State to promote healthcare-seeking behaviours, including attendance at antenatal clinics and routine immunisation for children.

She reassured residents of the safety and effectiveness of vaccines, calling for sustained collaboration among stakeholders.

Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the Taraba State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr Tukura Nuhu Nyigwa, commended the state government’s support and lauded the First Lady’s commitment to improving maternal and child health.

He reaffirmed the agency’s dedication to delivering quality healthcare services across the state.

On his part, the Commissioner for Health, Dr Bordiya G. Buma, represented by Mr Chufor Harmony, said the government is strengthening primary healthcare through facility upgrades, provision of medical equipment, and recruitment of additional health workers to enhance service delivery.

In her remarks, Hajiya Halima Mohammed, representing the Nigeria Governors’ Spouses Forum (NGSF), praised the Taraba First Lady’s initiative and reiterated the Forum’s commitment to collaborating on programmes that improve the health and wellbeing of women and children in Taraba State and across Nigeria.