Polio Threat Looms: UNICEF, Gombe Government Rally to Boost Immunization Effort
By Auwal Ahmad Umar
The Chief of UNICEF’s Bauchi Field Office, Dr. Nuzhat Rafique, has raised concerns over the growing number of children yet to receive vital immunization in Gombe State.
Speaking during the official launch of the 2025 round of the National Immunization Plus Days (NIPDs) campaign, Dr. Rafique, represented by UNICEF Health Officer Oluseyi Olusunde, identified four local government areas — Dukku, Kwami, Funakaye, and Yamaltu-Deba — as high-risk zones with critically low immunization coverage.
While acknowledging Nigeria’s 2020 milestone of being declared free from wild poliovirus, Dr. Rafique warned that outbreaks of vaccine-derived poliovirus continue to threaten public health. She stressed the urgent need to tackle vaccine misinformation and called on traditional leaders to support efforts in encouraging full immunization compliance.
“Our work is not finished. We must fight misinformation and ensure no child is left behind,” she emphasized.
Representing Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya at the event, the Deputy Governor and Chairman of the State Task Force on Immunisation, Dr. Manassah Daniel Jatau, reaffirmed the state’s dedication to safeguarding children’s health.
Dr. Jatau highlighted the recent detection of five cases of circulating variant poliovirus type 2 (cVPV2) in the state, describing the situation as a ticking time bomb if swift actions are not taken.
“Every child missed is a potential case,” he warned, urging community leaders, religious institutions, and parents to fully support the campaign.
He also called on residents, particularly those in remote and underserved areas, to take advantage of the free health services available during the immunization period.
The campaign aims not only to eradicate polio but also to strengthen Gombe’s overall public health system, ensuring a safer future for every child in the state.
Gombe State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Habu Dahiru, emphasized the importance of community involvement in the success of the campaign. He urged parents and caregivers to ensure that their children receive all necessary vaccines and preventive treatment against malaria.
“Every child deserves a healthy start to life,” Dr. Dahiru said. “This campaign is not just about vaccines—it is about giving our children a future free of preventable diseases.”
The integrated campaign aims to improve immunisation coverage, promote vaccine awareness during the African Vaccination Week, and step up the fight against malaria in line with World Malaria Day goals.
With UNICEF and other partners pledging continued support, Gombe State’s healthcare trajectory appears firmly on course for even greater achievements in public health.
