In a renewed push to strengthen public awareness and compliance with child immunisation, the Federal Capital Territory Administration has intensified advocacy campaigns with the active collaboration of religious leaders.

FCTA announced this in a statement on Sunday.

According to the statement, advocacy and field operations across the FCT have been stepped up to ensure every child is adequately protected against vaccine-preventable diseases through timely immunisation.

It stressed the importance of full participation in the ongoing Measles-Rubella Child Immunisation Campaign, explaining that immunisation was mandated under the Child Rights Act 2003 to safeguard every child’s health.

The FCTA reiterated that vaccines in Abuja are free, safe, and effective, urging parents not to let ignorance or misinformation hinder their children’s access to life-saving immunisation services.

“We will continue to educate our people and reassure them of vaccine safety and effectiveness,” said the FCTA, reiterating the government’s commitment to transparency and community engagement in health promotion.

The statement announced that FCT minister Nyesom Wike had approved free enrolment in the FCT Health Insurance Scheme for fully vaccinated children attending public schools. It disclosed that enforcement of legal provisions had begun to curb non-compliance, warning that parents and school owners obstructing vaccination teams would face sanctions under the Child Rights Act 2003.

Citing Sections 13 and 14 of the Act, the statement reminded parents and institutions of their duty to ensure children’s immunisation, noting that denial of this right violated their right to health and protection.

The field advocacy visits commenced on Friday in several mosques, including Ansar-ud-Deen Society and Al-Habibiyyah Islamic Foundation, to promote acceptance and participation among Muslim communities.

On Sunday, the advocacy extended to major churches such as MFM, RCCG, ECWA, and Christ Holy Church International, reinforcing interfaith collaboration in achieving universal immunisation coverage.

The sensitisation drive was part of a citywide campaign to ensure that no child, whether in schools, worship centres, or markets, was left unprotected from preventable diseases.

(NAN)