UNICEF and Niger State Primary Health Care Development Agency Urge Parents to Take Polio Vaccination Seriously
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Niger State Primary Health Care Development Agency have increased their efforts, calling on parents and guardians to vaccinate their children against polio.
In a media briefing preparing for a statewide campaign starting on March 29, 202,6, which targets all the 25 local government areas of Niger State, the campaign aims to stop the spread of the virus amid rising cases in some neighboring states.
During the briefing at Doko Hotels in Minna, Dr. Ibrahim Mohammed from the UNICEF Kaduna Field Office emphasized the risks posed by the current situation, citing recent outbreaks in Bauchi, Kebbi, Kwara, Zamfara, and Sokoto states which some of the state’s share boundary with Niger state.
He stressed that children under five are at high risk, pointing out that polio is a communicable disease capable of causing permanent disability or death.
Dr. Mohammed warned that Niger State’s proximity to affected areas increases its vulnerability, especially for unvaccinated children.
He added that multiple doses are essential for children to build full immunity and warned that incomplete vaccination could lead to continued transmission.
Parents and caregivers are strongly urged to take advantage of the campaign period to vaccinate their children and support the nationwide goal of Polio eradication.
Some stakeholders also highlighted the crucial role of media and community leaders in encouraging public awareness, participation and fighting misinformation about polio Vaccination programs.
