UNICEF, Sokoto Govt Renew Commitment to End Polio, Target 100% Immunization Coverage in Northwest Nigeria

The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Sokoto State Government have reaffirmed their joint commitment to eradicating poliovirus in Nigeria’s northwest region, vowing to intensify efforts to reach every unvaccinated child.

The pledge was made in Sokoto on Friday during the commemoration of World Polio Day 2025, celebrated annually on October 24 to highlight global progress toward eliminating the disease.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Michael Juma, UNICEF Chief of Field Office for Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara States, noted that significant progress has been made in immunization coverage across the region but stressed the need to ensure no child is left behind.

> “We’ve just concluded an integrated polio, measles, rubella, and HPV campaign, reaching about 5.3 million children across the three states — a remarkable 120 percent coverage,” Juma said.

He, however, disclosed that about 3,000 households remain non-compliant and emphasized the need for stronger community engagement and trusted local advocacy to reach them. Juma also lauded the Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara State Governments for their political commitment and effective surveillance systems, adding that deputy governors in the states personally chair their polio task forces.

He further urged the media to help counter misinformation and boost public confidence in vaccination campaigns, noting that accurate reporting is essential to achieving total eradication. To mark the day, UNICEF organized a youth advocacy football match in Sokoto, featuring polio survivors who shared their personal experiences to inspire community action.

In his remarks, Dr. Abubakar Faruku Wurno, Sokoto State Commissioner for Health, described the event as “a day of reflection and renewed determination” to sustain the state’s polio-free status.

According to him, the state targeted 1.4 million children in the last immunization campaign but exceeded expectations by vaccinating over 1.57 million, representing 160 percent coverage.

Dr. Wurno attributed the success to the leadership of Governor Ahmad Aliyu, timely release of counterpart funds, procurement of 26 new deep freezers, and strong support from partners such as UNICEF, WHO, and APIN.

He revealed that 19 of the state’s 23 local government areas achieved over 90 percent coverage, while urging four LGAs—Bodinga, Shagari, Sokoto South, and Wamakko—to intensify their efforts.

While commending progress made, Wurno warned that Sokoto’s proximity to border communities poses risks of cross-border virus transmission. He called for sustained surveillance and continuous routine immunization to prevent resurgence.

To strengthen manpower, the commissioner announced the deployment of 209 qualified midwives to 109 primary healthcare centers across the state and the enforcement of a two-year rural posting policy for new health workers.

> “Our goal is simple — protect every child, strengthen our communities, and keep Sokoto polio-free. Together with our partners, traditional and religious leaders, and the media, we can end polio for good,” he said.

This year’s World Polio Day theme, “A Healthy Future for Every Child: Let’s End Polio Together,” underscores the global call for unity and sustained action toward a polio-free world.