Nigeria is ramping up its advocacy efforts in anticipation of the nationwide introduction of the measles-rubella (MR) vaccine—a critical intervention aimed at preventing congenital defects and safeguarding the health of newborns. The initiative is being led by the Centre for Well-Being and Integrated Nutrition Solutions (C-WINS), which is working in close collaboration with key stakeholders across the country.

Addressing a Preventable Threat
Rubella, often mistaken for a mild childhood rash, can have devastating consequences when contracted by pregnant women. Maternal infection, particularly during the first trimester, can lead to Congenital Rubella Syndrome (CRS), a condition characterized by serious health complications such as cataracts, heart defects, hearing impairments, and mental disabilities. Recognizing the preventable nature of these outcomes, C-WINS, through its Advocacy Project headed by Dr. Mahmud Zubairu, has intensified efforts to prepare the nation for the vaccine’s introduction.

Collaborative Efforts for a Nationwide Roll-Out
The government, in partnership with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency and other health agencies, is mobilizing resources and sensitizing communities ahead of the 2025 MR vaccine rollout. C-WINS has been instrumental in spearheading these initiatives, working with influential groups such as the Nigeria Governors’ Spouses Forum. Recent public awareness campaigns, launched by First Ladies from states including Akwa Ibom, Bauchi, Bayelsa, Ebonyi, Enugu, Gombe, and Kwara, have been pivotal in driving community mobilisation and fostering vaccine acceptance.

Strategic Media Engagement and Overcoming Challenges
A crucial component of the advocacy campaign is strategic media engagement. C-WINS emphasizes that the media plays an essential role in shaping public perceptions and dispelling misinformation—a challenge that has previously hindered vaccination efforts in certain regions. Through targeted messaging and outreach in key states like Ebonyi, Akwa Ibom, and Cross River, the campaign aims to elevate immunisation uptake to the 95 percent coverage necessary for herd immunity, thereby protecting families against both measles and rubella.

Financial and Logistical Commitments: Keys to Success
Dr. Zubairu has underscored that the success of the MR vaccine introduction depends on the timely financial and logistical commitments from both federal and state governments. Although the vaccine is costly, support from the Gavi Alliance and other stakeholders has significantly subsidised the expense, making it more accessible. However, to ensure a seamless rollout, governments must also commit to providing the necessary resources for transport, storage, training, and deployment of health workers. The centre’s advocacy stresses that such investments are not only critical for immediate public health but are also an investment in the long-term stability and quality of life for Nigerian families.

Looking Ahead
With the groundwork for the MR vaccine rollout being solidly laid, C-WINS and its partners remain focused on addressing regional disparities in immunisation coverage. The National Demographic Health Survey (NDHS) 2023/2024 has highlighted that regions such as the North-West are underserved compared to other parts of the country. Urgent, targeted interventions are being called for to eliminate these disparities and bolster routine as well as supplemental immunisation activities.

In conclusion, the multi-faceted advocacy efforts led by C-WINS represent a comprehensive approach to not only introduce a life-saving vaccine but also to strengthen Nigeria’s overall public health framework. By ensuring that financial, logistical, and community-based supports are in place, the nation is poised to protect future generations from the severe consequences of rubella, ultimately contributing to a healthier, more stable society.