Sokoto begins polio vaccination across 23 LGAs
The Sokoto State Government has initiated a polio immunization campaign aimed at reaching children across all 23 local government areas. Parents and community leaders are being urged to ensure that all eligible children receive the vaccine.
The campaign, dubbed the Sub-National Immunisation Plus Polio Campaign, was launched on Friday at the palace of the District Head of Durbawa in Kware Local Government Area. During the launch, Ibrahim Attahiru Rugga, the Executive Chairman of Kware LGA, called on traditional rulers and parents to play their part in the vaccination efforts.
The District Head of Durbawa also emphasized the need for residents to support vaccination teams during the campaign.
At the event, a representative from the African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET) highlighted concerns regarding a decline in funding for polio initiatives. The representative noted that current resources are insufficient to cover all areas, leading stakeholders to prioritize certain locations for supervision and monitoring across the country.
Representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) reiterated their commitment to aiding Sokoto State in its drive to eradicate polio.
Dr. Faruku Abubakar Wurno, the Special Assistant to the Governor on Health, who represented the Commissioner for Health, assured attendees of the state’s ongoing support for the campaign. He also appealed for collaboration between parents, community leaders, and vaccination teams.
Dr. Bilyaminu Yari Sifawa, the acting Executive Secretary of the Sokoto State Primary Health Care Development Agency, underscored the critical importance of reaching every eligible child during the immunization campaign.
