By Tracy Ohovwore
The Edo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (EDSPHCDA) has commenced the second round of the National Immunization Plus Days (NIPDs), which began on June 28, 2025, and is scheduled to end on July 3, 2025.
The agency announced that this round of the polio vaccination campaign targets children aged 0 to 5 years. Health educators across all 18 local government areas in the state have begun sensitizing communities on the importance of the NIPDs for polio, while also raising awareness on other pressing public health issues including Dengue Fever and Diphtheria.
Vaccination teams are currently moving through homes, schools, churches, mosques, and other locations where children can be found, administering two drops of the Oral Polio Vaccine to all eligible children, regardless of their previous immunization status.
At the official flag-off ceremony held at the Ugbekun Primary Healthcare Center, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani reaffirmed the state government’s strong commitment to the health and well-being of mothers and children. She assured the public that the polio vaccine is safe, with no side effects, and encouraged mothers to ensure their children receive the vaccine to protect them from the disease.
Also speaking at the event, the Honourable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of the Edo State Ministry of Health, Dr. Stanley Ehiarimwian, welcomed attendees and reminded parents that the NIPDs vaccination is meant to complement, not replace, the routine immunization services available in the state.
In his remarks, the Executive Secretary of EDSPHCDA, Dr. Coulson Oahimire, expressed gratitude to the Governor, His Excellency Governor Monday Okpebholo, for his continuous support to the agency and technical partners. He noted that this support has been vital in ensuring the smooth execution of the NIPDs exercise and in safeguarding the health of children in Edo State.
