The Incident Manager of the Zamfara State Polio EOC, Dr. Murtala Salaudeen, disclosed this during a media briefing to mark the 2025 World Polio Day in the state. He noted that the progress achieved reflects the resilience of health workers and the strong collaboration between the state government and development partners.
According to Dr. Salaudeen, sustained support from organizations such as the World Health Organisation (WHO), UNICEF, Solina, Chigari Foundation, and Sultan Foundation has been instrumental in overcoming barriers to immunization, particularly in hard-to-reach and conflict-affected areas.
“National and international partners have contributed immensely to the reduction of polio. We were able to vaccinate all targeted children and reach many communities despite the challenges of insecurity,” he said.
He further explained that through coordinated efforts between the Zamfara State Government, local authorities, and international partners, previously daunting challenges in the vaccination process are now being effectively addressed.
Also speaking, the Executive Secretary of the Zamfara State Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Hussaini Yakubu Anka, commended Governor Dauda Lawal for his continued support toward the success of the immunization campaign.
Dr. Anka also praised the role of traditional and religious leaders, describing their ongoing advocacy and public enlightenment efforts as vital to increasing community acceptance of vaccination.
“We appreciate the tremendous efforts of our royal fathers, traditional rulers, and religious leaders for their continuous enlightenment and advocacy on vaccination,” he said.
Health officials say the progress in Zamfara underscores Nigeria’s broader commitment to maintaining its polio-free status, with ongoing campaigns aimed at ensuring that no child is left behind, even in areas facing insecurity.