Niger State stakeholders have reaffirmed their commitment to eradicating poliomyelitis and improving child immunization coverage. At an event marking the 2025 World Polio Day, themed “End Polio: For Every Child, Everywhere,” the Ministry of Primary Health Care Development Agency’s Health Education Officer, Usman Alhaji Mohammed, emphasized the government’s dedication to supporting logistics, manpower development, and other critical areas to ensure no child is left behind in the fight against the disease.

The state’s 25 local government areas are collaborating with partners, including UNICEF, Rotary International, and the Polio Survivors Group, to raise awareness and mobilize communities against polio. A “hit-and-run strategy” is being adopted to deliver vaccines to children in hard-to-reach areas, including communities affected by insecurity. This approach aims to increase immunization coverage and prevent the spread of the disease.

Habiba Garba, State Woman Leader of the Polio Affected Persons Association, urged mothers to ensure their children are fully vaccinated, stressing the importance of immunization in preventing polio, which can affect a child’s physical development and mobility. She warned that mothers who refuse to vaccinate their children may face difficulties in the future if their child contracts polio. Garba also encouraged people living with polio to ignore stigma and remain confident, advising them not to let negative comments affect their self-esteem.

Mallam Awwal Ahmed, State Chairman of the Polio Affected Persons Association, stated that marking World Polio Day helps to assess progress in the fight against polio and plan for its total eradication in Niger State and across Nigeria. The association has over 100 members across the 25 local government areas, all working to support efforts to end poliomyelitis in their respective communities. By reinforcing their commitment to eradicating polio, stakeholders in Niger State are taking crucial steps towards a polio-free future, underscoring the significance of continued efforts to improve immunization coverage and prevent the spread of the disease.