In a decisive move to strengthen public health and protect children from preventable diseases, the Borno State Government has announced the temporary closure of all public and private schools across the state to enable a statewide vaccination campaign against measles, rubella, and polio.
According to an official circular from the Borno State Ministry of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation, all primary and secondary schools are to suspend academic activities for two days — Thursday, October 23, and Friday, October 24, 2025. Normal school sessions will resume on Monday, October 27, 2025.
Purpose of the Temporary School Closure
The government explained that the brief closure is to facilitate the smooth execution of the National Immunisation Plus Days (NIPDs), a vital health initiative led by the Ministry of Health and Human Services in collaboration with global development partners.
This exercise aims to protect thousands of children across Borno from the deadly impact of measles, rubella, and poliomyelitis. It will also allow health personnel to access schools and communities effectively, ensuring that every eligible child is vaccinated without disruption to learning activities.
Age Groups Targeted for the Vaccination
The immunisation campaign targets specific age brackets that are considered most vulnerable to the diseases. Below is a breakdown of the target groups:
| Vaccine Type | Target Age Group | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Measles-Rubella Vaccine | 9 months – 14 years | To protect against measles and rubella infections |
| Polio Vaccine | 0 – 59 months (under 5 years) | To strengthen immunity and prevent a resurgence of poliovirus |
The campaign is expected to cover all 27 local government areas of the state, with trained health workers mobilized to schools, primary health centers, and communities.
Statement from the Ministry of Education
The announcement was contained in a statement signed by Yakaru Mustapha, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation.
“The two-day break is to enable the State Ministry of Health and Human Services to conduct a statewide measles, rubella, and polio vaccination exercise. Parents and guardians are advised to make their children available for immunisation to ensure total coverage,” the statement said.
Mustapha further commended the dedication of health workers and volunteers who continue to deliver life-saving vaccines across the state despite security and environmental challenges.
Why the Exercise Is Important
Borno State has remained a high-priority region for vaccination efforts due to its history of health challenges and displacement caused by insurgency. Health experts warn that reduced immunisation coverage could lead to fresh outbreaks of diseases, particularly in overcrowded communities and internally displaced persons (IDP) camps.
The vaccination exercise aligns with Nigeria’s broader goal of maintaining its polio-free certification and reducing the prevalence of vaccine-preventable diseases. Measles and rubella, if left unchecked, can lead to severe complications, while polio—though eradicated in the country—still poses risks through possible cross-border transmission.
Parents and Guardians Urged to Cooperate
The Ministry has called on all parents, guardians, and school administrators to give full support to the vaccination program. Health officials will be visiting schools and designated centers to administer vaccines safely and efficiently.
Parents are advised to keep their children’s immunisation cards updated and ensure that every child within the target age group receives the appropriate vaccines. The government assured residents that all vaccines being used are approved, safe, and effective.
Commitment to Child Health and Education
The state government emphasized that the temporary closure will not affect the academic calendar. Schools are expected to adjust their schedules accordingly to recover the two lost days once classes resume.
Officials reaffirmed their commitment to creating a balance between education and public health, stressing that the well-being of children remains the state’s foremost priority.
Looking Ahead: Building a Healthier Borno
This vaccination drive is another important milestone in Borno State’s ongoing effort to rebuild stronger, healthier communities after years of conflict and displacement.
By allowing this short academic break for the immunisation program, the government continues to demonstrate its dedication to protecting children’s lives while promoting long-term educational stability.
Health authorities encourage residents to cooperate fully with vaccinators, community leaders, and mobilisers to ensure the success of the campaign.
Conclusion
The two-day school closure across Borno State is a strategic and preventive step designed to support a massive immunisation exercise targeting measles, rubella, and polio. This move underscores the state’s unwavering commitment to child health and the well-being of its people.
Through this initiative, Borno reinforces its reputation as a proactive state—prioritizing both the education and health of its future generation.
