The Enugu State government says it surpassed the national measles and rubella immunisation target of 85 per cent, recording “101 per cent” coverage.

The commissioner for health, George Ugwu, disclosed this in Enugu on Saturday following the national immunisation exercise held between February 4 and February 13.

Mr Ugwu attributed the achievement to “field commitment and inter-ministerial collaboration” across key sectors of government and community leadership.

He said the strategy involved coordination among ministries overseeing gender, poverty alleviation, information, education, and local government, alongside traditional and religious institutions.

The commissioner praised Governor Peter Mbah for what he described as transformative support for the state’s health system.

“With Governor Mbah’s backing, all our Primary Healthcare Centres and cold-chain systems are receiving measles and rubella vaccines preserved at appropriate temperatures.

“The governor has not left us unsupported. We are recruiting thousands of primary healthcare workers, enabling us to deliver on this assignment.

“We are most grateful for the support you are giving the health system. It is improving, and the results are evident,” he said.

Mr Ugwu also commended the governor’s engagement with health workers and his commitment to their welfare.

“We are happy you are not only engaging healthcare workers but also prioritising their welfare,” he said.

He noted rising interest in placements at ESUT Teaching Hospital, Parklane, with many seeking internships and residency positions in Enugu State.

“This is because of the right infrastructure and leadership you have put in place in Enugu State,” he added.

Mr Ugwu recalled a recent visit by a National Assembly Health Committee delegation, which commended the governor’s health reforms.

The statewide immunisation campaign targeted children aged between nine months and 14 years. 

(NAN)