Over One Million Children Targeted in Sokoto’s Polio Immunization Campaign
In a bold move to eradicate polio, Sokoto State has launched a four-day vaccination campaign targeting over one million children under five years old. The campaign, which began on April 26 and runs through April 30, is part of Nigeria’s broader strategy to eliminate circulating variant poliovirus type 2 by December 2025.
The exercise adopts a house-to-house approach, ensuring no child is missed. In Sokoto North Local Government Area, parents and caregivers came out in large numbers to have their children vaccinated. However, a few households in the Bazza area reportedly refused the vaccine.
UNICEF facilitator Latifa, who monitored compliance in the area, stated that households rejecting the vaccine would be reported to the Non-Compliance Committee for follow-up action. She stressed that community cooperation is vital in the fight against polio.
Dr. Larai Aliyu Tambuwal, Executive Secretary of the Sokoto State Primary Health Care Development Agency, reaffirmed the state’s commitment to reaching every eligible child, adding that all necessary steps would be taken to ensure full coverage.
In Sokoto South LGA, the campaign was flagged off by Council Chairman Mohammad Ya’u Danda (represented), who called on mothers and caregivers to trust the safety and effectiveness of the polio vaccine.
Meanwhile, in Wamakko LGA, parents were also seen bringing out their children for immunisation. UNICEF facilitator Habibu Kilgori noted that proactive steps have been taken to prevent non-compliance and fake finger-marking, including the engagement of independent supervisors and civil society groups to monitor the campaign.
The campaign is being supported by key partners, including UNICEF and the World Health Organisation (WHO). This effort reflects the unwavering resolve of Sokoto State and its partners to protect every child and end polio for good.
