Overview
Led by Dr. Nihinlola T. Mabogunje & Dr. Mustafa Z. Mahmud, on January 13, 2025, C-WINS, in collaboration with key stakeholders, engaged with Folasade Tinubu-Ojo, Iyaloja General of Nigeria, to advocate for the introduction of the Measles-Rubella (MR) Vaccine in Nigeria. This strategic meeting, led by Dr. Nihinlola T. Mabogunje and Dr. Mustafa Z. Mahmud, aimed to leverage the influence of Iyaloja and the Nigerian Governors’ Spouses Forum (NGSF) in mobilizing women and communities for vaccine acceptance and uptake.

Key Participants

• Mr. Shsudeen Muhammad Bello (NPHCDA Representative)
• Omowunmi Gbamis (NGSF Representative)
• Muhammed Mustafa Lecky (HSRC Chairperson)
• Dr. Iwot Ndaeyo (HSRC General Secretary)
• Hon. Muhammad Usman (National Advocate)
• Ibrahim Tafawa Balewa (National Advocate)
• Dr. Eugene Ivase (C-WINS Media Consultant)

Key Discussions & Takeaways
✅ Advocacy for MR Vaccine Introduction: Dr. Mahmud provided an insightful presentation on measles and rubella, emphasizing their dangers and the urgent need for widespread immunization.
✅ Strengthening Collaboration with NGSF: Omowunmi Gbamis conveyed NGSF’s commitment to championing public health initiatives and supporting MR vaccine awareness campaigns.
✅ Grassroots Mobilization: The discussion highlighted Iyaloja General’s pivotal role in mobilizing women at the grassroots level to spread awareness and create demand for the vaccine.
✅ Stakeholder Engagement: Dr. Lecky and Hon. Muhammad Usman reinforced the importance of engaging traditional and community leaders to ensure the vaccine reaches the last mile.
✅ Government’s Implementation Plan: Mr. Shsudeen Muhammad Bello announced the government’s plan to introduce the MR Vaccine in October 2025, emphasizing that while logistics are in place, driving demand remains a major challenge.

Iyaloja General’s Commitment
Expressing her unwavering support, Iyaloja General Folasade Tinubu-Ojo stated:
“I don’t really have a choice but to pick up the mantle for what affects humanity.”

Recalling her 2014 collaboration with Dr. Nihinlola in mobilizing 2,000 women weekly for health advocacy, she reaffirmed her dedication to championing this cause to protect the health of Nigeria’s children.

Next Steps
➡️ Strengthening collaboration with the Nigerian Governors’ Spouses Forum (NGSF) to amplify vaccine advocacy.
➡️ Expanding outreach efforts through traditional leadership networks.
➡️ Leveraging media platforms to drive public awareness and acceptance of the MR vaccine.

This engagement marks a critical step in ensuring no child is left unprotected against measles and rubella. Together, through strong advocacy, community mobilization, and strategic partnerships, we can achieve a healthier Nigeria.