Health
AS part of efforts to increase child immunisation awareness in Nigeria, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has launched a song entitled No More Zero Dose.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the song features UNICEF ambassadors and music stars from Nigeria, Mali, Chad, Cameroon, and Guinea.
They include Nigeria’s Cobhams Asuquo, Waje, Master Soumy, Sekouba Bambino, Stanley Enow, Mawndoe, Spyro, Timi Dakolo, Omawumi, Qing Madi, Kate Henshaw and Ali Nuhu.
At the event at Lekki, Lagos State, UNICEF Country Representative, Cristian Munduate, said that under-vaccination remained a pressing issue in Nigeria.
According to Munduate, the launch is a call to action, especially for Nigeria.
“The release of the No More Zero Dose song featuring 12 talented artistes from across West and Central Africa, eight of whom are from Nigeria, reflects the deep commitment to ensuring that every child receives life-saving vaccines.
“Music is a powerful tool for change, and through this collaboration, we are amplifying the message that no child should be left behind when it has to do with life-saving vaccines,” she said.
Mrs Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, Wife of Lagos State Governor, commended UNICEF for commitment to child immunisation.
She urged stakeholders to strengthen Nigeria’s health care system and expand immunisation coverage.
Mrs Sanwo-Olu described the occasion as special, noting that it coincided with the world Polio Day.
“This is symbolising resilience, dedication and collaboration of stakeholders, from the government to international organisations, healthcare workers and local communities.
“The day is dedicated to the global effort to protect our children from polio and other preventable diseases. Nigeria has made a remarkable progress in tackling the issue.
“However, our journey is not yet complete. There remain many children who are not fully immunised, leaving them at a risk of diseases that can be prevented.
“Today’s launch is not just a celebration or a showcase of music. It is a call to action,” she said.
The governor’s wife urged collective efforts in creating awareness about the need for complete child immunisation.
Gilles Fagninou, the Regional Representative of UNICEF, Western Central Africa, said that every child deserved a healthy start in life.
Fagninou added that children had the right to vaccines that could protect them against diseases; hence, the passion to inspire action and awareness through music.
He said: “We are immensely proud of this collaboration that have brought together voices of talented musicians and UNICEF ambassadors to advocate complete immunisation coverage.
“Today’s event is a celebration of music, a celebration of love, a commitment to love, a powerful call to action. We are here because every child deserves a healthy start in life.
“Music is universal, transcends borders, goes beyond languages, breaks barriers, and speaks about our emotions.
“The music has amplified a message that is critical to the well-being of children across the region. We need more action.”
Asuquo, a UNICEF Champion and music producer, urged more people to join the movement to complete vaccination of children against preventable diseases.
“Together, we have the power to protect every child’s future and eradicate these diseases, join us in this mission and let us spread hope and health across Africa.
“Let us work to ensure that every child receives the vital vaccine they deserve, protecting their future and our world,” he said.
Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State said that collaboration between Lagos State and global partners such as UNICEF had been pivotal in ensuring that every child would be protected againt preventable diseases.
Gov. Sanwo-Olu who was represented by Mrs Olukemi Ogunyemi, his Special Adviser on Health, said that immunisation was not just a health issue but a matter of social justice and equity.
“We are empowering individuals, families and communities to take responsibility for the health of our children.
“Polio, once a threat to billions, is now close to being eliminated; thanks to the devoted efforts of health workers, government agencies and international partners.
“Our administration will continue to strengthen our healthcare system, invest in community outreach, health education and partnerships that ensure no child is left behind,” he added. (NAN)
26th October, 2024.
C.E.
Tags: No More Zero Dose UNICEF
