…says vaccines help boost children’s immune system
As part of ongoing efforts to improve vaccine acceptance in faith-based communities, the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board (LSPHCB) has deepened its engagement with Islamic leadership by paying a courtesy visit to the Chief Imam of Lagos, Sheikh Sulaiman Oluwatoyin Abou-Nolla, and other senior clerics.
The objective was to seek their endorsement and collaboration in promoting Routine Immunisation (RI) across the State.
During the high-level meeting, the Permanent Secretary of LSPHCB, Dr. Ibrahim Akinwunmi Mustafa, mni, emphasised the critical role of religious leaders in promoting public health and ensuring that accurate vaccine information reaches the grassroots.
According to Dr. Mustafa, “Vaccines are vital for strengthening children’s immune systems and protecting them from life-threatening but preventable diseases such as measles, polio, and others.
“Routine immunisation is not just a health strategy, it is an act of responsibility and compassion. As religious leaders, your voices carry significant weight. We believe your partnership can help dispel fears, correct misinformation, and encourage greater participation in immunisation efforts.”
To support this goal, the LSPHCB Perm Sec presented faith-aligned, culturally sensitive educational materials for mosques and other Islamic settings.
He explained that these resources were designed to respect religious values while addressing common concerns around vaccination.
Dr Mustafa particularly highlighted the importance of protecting pre-teen girls through the HPV vaccine, noting its ability to prevent cervical cancer and related diseases.
“We urge you to share this knowledge with your congregants. Let us use sermons, community gatherings, and mosque announcements to educate parents and caregivers. Together, we can make immunisation a community norm and protect our future generations,” he added.
The meeting forms part of the HPV Vaccine Awareness and Uptake Project, a statewide initiative that aligns with the broader public health agenda of the Lagos State Government to build healthier communities through inclusive and strategic partnerships.
The Chief Imam of Lagos, Sheikh Sulaiman Oluwatoyin Abou-Nolla, expressed appreciation for the visit and assured the delegation of continued support in driving vaccine awareness through Islamic platforms across the State.
Also present at the meeting were Mrs. Adesola Grace Honfor, Director of Health Education and Promotion Services; Nurse Oluwakemi Oshodi, the State Immunisation Officer; Dr. Adeniji, Assistant Immunisation Programme Officer; the Regional Islamic clerics, representatives from the districts, as well as representatives from UNICEF, CHAI and WHO.
