Diphtheria Fight Intensifies as MSF, Borno Vaccinate 840,000 Children

By Tada Jutha, Maiduguri

No fewer than 840,000 children under the age of 14 have been vaccinated against diphtheria in Borno State this year, following a joint campaign by Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) and the Borno State Ministry of Health and Human Services.

The large-scale immunisation drive was carried out in two phases, with 490,000 children reached during the first round held from February 9 to 15, 2026, while an additional 350,000 children were vaccinated in the second round conducted between April 9 and 15.

In a statement issued on Thursday in Maiduguri, MSF said the February exercise surpassed expectations, exceeding the initial target of 387,000 children by over 100,000. However, the April round fell slightly short of its 360,000 target, with about 350,000 children vaccinated.

“Despite the high number of children reached, limited vaccine availability constrained the scale of response in some affected communities,” the organisation said.

MSF explained that it worked closely with the state government throughout the campaign, providing extensive logistical and operational support to ensure its success.

“We supported the Borno State Ministry of Health to implement the two-week vaccination campaign by providing vaccine storage and trantransportation, incentives for immunisation teams, andlth promotion and supervision,” the statement noted.

According to the organisation, while it handled logistics and coordination, the vaccines used during the exercise were supplied by the state Ministry of Health.

Beyond vaccination, MSF said it also strengthened case management by supporting the diphtheria treatment unit at the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.

The organisation noted that the intensified vaccination campaign coincided with a rise in suspected diphtheria cases, underscoring the urgency of sustained intervention to kerb the spread of the disease.

Health authorities have continued to stress the importance of routine immunisation and community awareness to prevent further outbreaks, particularly among vulnerable children in conflict-affected areas of the state.

Kebbi Peace Workshop: Gov. Idris Harps on Peace, Unity, Good Governance

By Abdullahi Tukur, Birnin Kebbi

The Kebbi State Governor, Comrade Nasir Idris, has described the critical role of religious leaders in promoting purposeful leadership, peace, and security as the state government convenes a high-level workshop for Ulama and clergymen in Birnin Kebbi.

The workshop, themed “The Role of Ulama and Clergymen in Ushering Purposeful Leadership, Peace and Security in Kebbi State”, was held on Wednesday at the Presidential Banquet Hall and brought together Islamic scholars, Christian clerics, and key stakeholders from across the state.

Governor Idris, while addressing participants, emphasised that the forum marks the beginning of sustained engagement between government and religious leaders, noting that such interactions will further strengthen unity, moral guidance, and collective responsibility in governance.

He attributed the successes recorded by his administration to the grace of Allah as well as the continued prayers and support of religious scholars, stressing that effective leadership thrives on consultation, teamwork, and openness to constructive advice.

The governor reiterated that his administration is deeply rooted in faith and guided by a firm belief in the power of prayer, noting that his mandate is a product of divine intervention and the goodwill of the people.

Gov. Idris highlighted some of his achievements in the health sector, education, infrastructural development, and the economy, while also acknowledging the existing security challenges; he called for sustained support for security agencies and intensified prayers, expressing optimism that collective efforts will consolidate the improving security situation in the state.

In his remarks, the Commissioner for Religious Affairs, Arch. Muhammad Sani Aliyu, disclosed that 24 religious organisations, including CAN, participated in the workshop and described clerics as key partners in promoting peace, unity, and good governance.

The workshop featured paper presentations by eminent scholars and clerics on leadership, governance, and peaceful coexistence, as well as special prayers for the state, the nation, and leaders at all levels, with a renewed call for sustained collaboration for the overall development of Kebbi State.

🔥 Rising Heat, Silent Danger: A Health Alert Nigerians Must Not Ignore

As temperatures continue to soar across parts of Nigeria, health experts are raising concern over an emerging climate pattern known as El Niño  a natural event that is already intensifying heat conditions and could pose serious risks to public health in the coming weeks.

What many people see as “ordinary hot weather” may, in reality, be something far more dangerous. With May approaching, meteorological changes linked to El Niño could delay rainfall and prolong extreme heat, exposing millions to life-threatening conditions if precautions are not taken.

What is El Niño and Why Does It Matter?

El Niño occurs when ocean temperatures in the Pacific rise unusually high. This disrupts global weather patterns, often leading to reduced rainfall and prolonged heat in regions like West Africa.

In practical terms, this means that the rains expected during this period may come late or be weaker than usual, leaving communities exposed to intense and persistent heat.

The Hidden Health Risk: Heat Stroke

One of the most dangerous outcomes of extreme heat is Heat Stroke — a condition that can affect anyone, including healthy individuals.

Heat stroke occurs when the body can no longer regulate its temperature. Without urgent care, it can lead to organ failure or even death.

Common warning signs include:

• Severe headache
• Dizziness or fainting
• Vomiting
• Hot, dry skin with little or no sweating

If these symptoms appear, move the person to a cool or shaded area immediately, cool their body with a damp cloth, and seek urgent medical attention.

Simple Steps That Can Save Lives

1. Stay Hydrated at All Times
Do not wait until you feel thirsty  thirst means your body is already dehydrated. Drink water regularly, even if you are not thirsty. Pay special attention to children and the elderly.

2. Avoid Peak Sun Hours
The sun is strongest between 11:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. Limit outdoor activities during this period. Parents should reconsider school sports or strenuous activities under the sun.

3. Dress for the Weather
Avoid dark clothing, especially black, as it absorbs heat. Opt for light-colored, loose-fitting cotton clothes.

4. Protect the Vulnerable — Including Animals
Ensure pets and even stray animals have access to water and shade. A simple bowl of water outside your home can save a life.

 A Collective Responsibility

Extreme heat is not just a weather condition — it is a public health concern. Awareness and early action can prevent unnecessary loss of life.

Communities are encouraged to share this information widely, check on vulnerable neighbours, and adopt heat safety measures immediately.

Final Word

As the effects of El Niño intensify, preparedness is key. The choices we make today — staying hydrated, avoiding excessive heat, and looking out for one another — can make the difference between life and tragedy.

Stay informed. Stay safe. Save a life.