The United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF, has called on the Kano State Government to declare a State of emergency on polio and routine immunisation following a resurgence of the disease in the state.
The Chief of Field Office in Kano, Rahma Farah, made the call on Tuesday in Kano during a media dialogue on polio and routine immunization ahead of the World Immunization Week.
Represented by Michael Banda, UNICEF Senior Education Manager in Kano, Farah said the call became necessary as Nigeria recorded 18 cases of polio in 18 local government areas across nine states, with three instances in Warawa, Bunkure and Nassarawa LGAs of Kano State.
“This is unacceptable and must be urgently addressed. Polio knows no boundaries. An outbreak anywhere threatens children everywhere,” he said.
The dialogue held in collaboration with the Kano State Government and the State Primary Health Care Management Board was convened to seek media support in mobilising public participation ahead of the next Polio Vaccination Campaign scheduled for April 24 to 30, 2025, which coincides with World Immunisation Week.
Farah emphasised the critical role of the media in countering disinformation, myths and rumours that often hinder vaccination efforts.
“UNICEF recognises and values your ongoing commitment to child rights advocacy and public awareness through your platforms.
“We call on you to disseminate accurate information and encourage parents and caregivers to bring out their children for vaccination,” he said.
He noted that more than three billion people have been vaccinated against polio globally since 1988, leading to a dramatic reduction in cases, but warned that recent outbreaks show the fight is not yet over.
UNICEF also appealed to local governments and urged the Kano State Government to show political will by declaring a state of emergency on polio and to ensure the timely release of counterpart funding.
Similarly, it called on the Chairman of the Association of Local Government Chairmen to secure financial commitments from LGA leaders for polio campaigns, and for all LGA chairpersons to actively participate in implementation, oversight and resolution of non-compliance.