The immunisation exercise will be carried out across all 16 local government areas of the state, in line with national efforts to prevent the resurgence of polio in Nigeria.
Reinforcing Immunity Despite Polio-Free Status
Dr. Nusirat Elelu, Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Primary Health Care Development Agency (KWSPHCDA), emphasized the importance of continued vigilance, noting that although Nigeria was declared free of the wild poliovirus, the country remains at risk due to vaccine-derived strains and outbreaks in other parts of the world.
“Kwara State is fully committed to protecting our children,” Dr. Elelu stated. “Even though we are free from the wild poliovirus, we cannot afford to be complacent. The threat of reintroduction remains real.”
She added that all children aged 0 to 5 years—regardless of their prior immunisation status—are eligible for the polio vaccine, which she described as safe, effective, and without risk of overdose.
Community-Wide Engagement and Outreach
To ensure the success of the campaign, the state will deploy vaccination teams to visit homes, markets, schools, and religious centres throughout the immunisation period. Dr. Elelu called on parents, caregivers, religious leaders, school authorities, and faith-based organisations to support the campaign by making sure every eligible child receives the vaccine.
The campaign is part of a national schedule coordinated by the National Polio Emergency Operation Centre, with Kwara joining other states in reinforcing the country's polio-free status through routine immunisation drives.
A Call for Collective Action
This initiative is not only a public health priority but also a reminder of the crucial role community support plays in preventing preventable diseases. By ensuring high coverage in this campaign, Kwara State aims to keep its children safe and contribute to global efforts to eradicate polio permanently.
Health officials urge all residents to participate actively and help spread awareness, ensuring that no child is left unvaccinated.