Edo State, through the Edo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (EDSPHCDA), has joined the rest of Africa in marking African Vaccination Week 2026, observed annually during the last week of April.
The theme for the year 2026 celebration is “For Every Generation, Vaccines Work,” highlighting the critical role of vaccines in safeguarding health across all ages.
To raise awareness and strengthen immunization efforts, a series of activities was organized, including sensitization campaigns in mosques, churches, schools, and marketplaces. There were also vaccination outreaches, media engagements, and a road walk aimed at educating the public on the importance of immunization.
The highlight of the week was the Flag-Off Ceremony and Symposium held on Tuesday, the 28th of April 2026, at Urhopota Hall, Ring Road, Benin City.
The event was attended by key stakeholders, including the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Anani Okphebholo, who was accompanied by the wife of the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Nimata Umar Ikhilor, as well as other dignitaries.
While delivering her keynote address, Mrs. Edesili Anani Okphebholo expressed her gratitude to the Governor of Edo State, His Excellency, Senator Monday Okphebholo, for the revitalization of the Central Medical Store, which ensures the safe and optimal storage of vaccines.
She further stated, “As we celebrate this African Vaccination Week, let us remember that vaccination is a collective responsibility. Let’s continue spreading the word that vaccines are safe, efficient, and effective. I pledge my support for immunization initiatives, empowering women, and committing to a safer Nigeria. I urge every generation to understand that indeed vaccines work.”
The event also featured goodwill messages from various dignitaries. The Honorable Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomhole; Executive Secretary EDSPHCDA, Dr. Coulson Oahimire Osoikhia; State Coordinator for the World Health Organization (WHO), Dr. Nora Eyo; NPHCDA State Coordinator, Mr. Jerry Osawe Lawani; and the Vice Chairman of Oredo LGA, Mr. Joseph Oke, all reaffirming their commitment to increasing vaccination coverage and ensuring that no one is left behind.
Prof. Ayeboh Sadoh, the guest speaker, delivered a thought-provoking presentation during the symposium, titled “Ensuring Vaccines Continue to Work for Future Generations,” reinforcing the importance of maintaining and improving vaccination efforts for future health security.
To honor individuals who have made significant contributions to immunization in the state, three State Immunization Champions were recognized with awards. Among them were Her Excellency, Mrs. Edesili Okphebholo Anani, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, for her advocacy and leadership in advancing immunization programs; Prof. Ayeboh Sadoh, Director of the Institute of Child Health at UNIBEN/UBTH, for her scholarly and technical efforts in increasing vaccine uptake and combating vaccine hesitancy; and Mrs. Elfrida Enogie Omogun, State Immunization Officer, for her exceptional leadership and consistent success in surpassing national immunization coverage targets.
The ceremony was attended by several important figures, including the Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Andrew Iyamu, EDSPHCDA Board Chairman, Dr. Odiase Ehiabhi, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health, Dr. Paul Eighemhenrio; Special Adviser to the Governor on Markets, Hon. Juliana Ikharo; EDSPHCDA Directors and Staff, Medical Officer of Health for Oredo, Dr. Mavelson Obasogie; and so many more. Also in attendance were development partners, religious and traditional leaders, healthcare practitioners, students from St. Philomena School of Nursing, and the School of Health Technology in Edo State.
