By Ibrahim Muhammad The Kano State Government has reiterated its dedication to ensuring all eligible children are immunized aga...
By Ibrahim Muhammad
The Kano State Government has reiterated its dedication to ensuring all eligible children are immunized against polio and other diseases, according to Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, Commissioner for Health.
Speaking at a press briefing to mark the 2024 World Polio Day, Dr. Yusuf emphasized the significance of this historic day as an opportunity to celebrate collective efforts toward polio eradication in Kano State and Nigeria.
The World Polio Day, celebrated annually on October 24, aims to raise awareness about the importance of polio vaccination. This year's theme, "Let's #EndPolio," underscores the global commitment to eradicating the disease.
Notably, October 24 also marks the 79th anniversary of the United Nations Day in Nigeria, with the theme "Global Unity and Sustainable Development."
Dr. Yusuf highlighted the progress made in polio eradication efforts, citing the drop in WPV cases by over 99% since 1988. However, he noted that endemic wild poliovirus type 1 remains in Pakistan and Afghanistan.
The commissioner emphasized that polio is a highly infectious and crippling disease, primarily affecting children under five.
To combat this, the Kano State Government has inaugurated a task force committee on immunization, chaired by the Deputy Governor, Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo.
Dr. Yusuf expressed gratitude to the Executive Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, and stakeholders for their support in maintaining Kano's polio-free status since August 25, 2020.
Key Partners in Polio Eradication Efforts:
- _WHO_
- _UNICEF_
- _AFENET_
- _SOLINA_
- _eHealth Africa_
- _Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation_
- _Aliko Dangote Foundation_
- _Coregroup_
- _Sultan Foundation_
- _Chigari Foundation_
The commissioner commended the press for their crucial role in mobilizing communities for health benefits. With continued collaboration and commitment, Kano State aims to maintain its polio-free status and contribute to the global eradication of the disease.
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