The country has recorded 30 cases of variant poliovirus in 2026, prompting renewed national response efforts involving government agencies, traditional institutions, and international partners.
The Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (National Primary Health Care Development Agency), Dr. Muyi Aina, disclosed the figures during a quarterly review meeting of the Northern Traditional Leaders Committee on Primary Health Care Delivery in Abuja.
He explained that the infections include 27 cases linked to cVPV2 and three linked to cVPV3, recorded as of epidemiological week 19. According to him, intensified response measures are already being implemented in high-risk states such as Sokoto, Kebbi, and Zamfara.
Stronger Immunisation Drive Shows Mixed Progress Across States
Dr. Aina noted that recent immunisation campaigns have improved in quality, coverage, and data reporting, with several states demonstrating stronger compliance.
He also highlighted regional disparities in infection control efforts, stating that Katsina, Kaduna, and Yobe have recorded zero cases in 2026, while Borno State has achieved an 86 percent reduction in infections, signalling progress in some of the most affected areas.
However, challenges persist. He revealed that more than 65,000 cases of non-compliance were recorded across 15 states during recent vaccination campaigns, though 71 percent have already been resolved through community engagement initiatives.
Government Pushes for Stronger Vaccine Uptake and Community Trust
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Ali Pate, said the Federal Government is scaling up efforts to improve vaccine coverage and strengthen primary healthcare systems nationwide.
He stressed that collaboration with traditional and religious leaders remains central to addressing vaccine hesitancy, particularly in rural communities where misinformation and distrust can hinder immunisation efforts.
Pate also said the administration of President Bola Tinubu is expanding health insurance coverage, upgrading primary healthcare facilities, and improving access to essential medicines, vaccines, and diagnostics.
He emphasised that sustained community involvement is key to achieving universal health coverage and maintaining Nigeria’s polio-free status.
Traditional Institutions and Global Partners Reinforce Support
Traditional leaders reaffirmed their commitment to grassroots mobilisation. The Chairman of the Northern Traditional Leaders Committee and Emir of Argungu, Alhaji Sama’ila Mera, pledged continued support for immunisation campaigns across communities.
Similarly, the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammadu Sa’ad Abubakar III, assured that traditional institutions will remain actively involved in government-led health interventions aimed at ending polio transmission in Nigeria.
International partners also underscored progress and caution. The World Health Organization (World Health Organization) Country Representative, Dr. Pavel Ursu, said Nigeria has made measurable improvements in primary healthcare delivery despite ongoing challenges.
Meanwhile, Rotary International General Secretary John Hewko warned that political activities ahead of elections must not disrupt ongoing eradication efforts, stressing the importance of maintaining consistent vaccination coverage to fully eliminate the disease.