Oyo Deputy Governor Reaffirms State’s Commitment to Strengthening Immunization Efforts

..Calls for Stakeholders’ Collaboration to Achieve Universal Vaccine Coverage

The Deputy Governor of Oyo State and Chairman Task Force on Immunization, Barrister Bayo Lawal, has reaffirmed the state government’s readiness to achieve universal immunization coverage, emphasizing that vaccination remains one of the most effective public health interventions.

Speaking at the Immunization Task Force Meeting with stakeholders held at the Ovo State Emergency Operation Centre, Total Garden, Ibadan, Barrister Lawal described the meeting as a critical step towards identifying challenges, strengthening partnerships, and strategizing to leave no child or community behind.

“Vaccines alone do not save lives; vaccination does,” he said. “This is why it is critical that we continue to engage our communities, build trust, and break down barriers to immunization.”

The Deputy Governor noted that the administration’s strategic initiatives to boost immunization efforts, including intensified community engagement, infrastructure development, health insurance enrollment for vulnerable groups, and data-driven planning.

He noted that over 212 Primary Health Care Centers (PHCs) have been upgraded, with work ongoing on an additional 106 facilities to further enhance service delivery across the state.

Lawal praised the contributions of health workers, community leaders, religious figures, development partners, and the media, urging them to remain steadfast in their roles as trusted voices for public health advocacy.

“Our administration has enrolled 45,000 poor and vulnerable individuals under the Basic Health Care Provision Fund, ensuring access to essential health services without out-of-pocket expenses,” he revealed. “We are also expanding health insurance enrollment in schools to prepare our children for a healthy future.”

The Deputy Governor called on all stakeholders to:

Health professionals: deliver quality services with empathy;

Traditional and religious leaders: advocate for and educate communities on immunization;

Development partners: sustain support and collaborate on innovative solutions;

Media practitioners: disseminate accurate information and combat misinformation about vaccines.

Assuring stakeholders of the state’s steadfast leadership and political will, Lawal stressed that a collaborative effort is necessary to protect the future of Oyo State’s children. He concluded by expressing optimism that, together, history would be made in achieving a healthier and more prosperous society.

“Let us commit ourselves to action. Together, we can protect the future of our children and generations to come,” he said.

The meeting concluded with a renewed pledge by all stakeholders to support ongoing immunization initiatives and strengthen community trust across Oyo State.

Goodwill messages were also given by representatives of WHO, NPHCDA, ROTARY, Chief Imam of Ibadan land, market women, Christian Association Of Nigeria, Traditional Leaders and WDC.

Present at the meeting are the commissioner for Health Dr Oluwaserimi Ajetunmobi, Executive Secretary OYSPHCB Dr. M B Olatunji, Dr. Akin Fagbemi Chairman Hospital Management board, and Hon. Awoleye Dada Chairman OYSPHCB.