Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State, on Saturday, launched the 2024 Polio Eradication campaign in Dawakin Kudu Local Government Area.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to combating the polio virus and other childhood diseases, according to a statement by his spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.
The campaign, which aims to vaccinate all eligible children in the state, is part of efforts to strengthen children’s immune systems and curb the spread of the virus, especially as Kano remains one of the 18 high-risk states in Nigeria.
In his speech, Governor Yusuf highlighted the state government’s determination to intensify vaccination efforts, working with health agencies and local communities to reach every corner of Kano.
Since Nigeria’s certification as a polio-free nation in August 2020, the governor emphasized that Kano has not let down its guard.
“We are committed to maintaining vigilant surveillance and ensuring routine immunization continues to protect our children,” he said.
He also called on parents to seize this opportunity to have their children vaccinated and to practice proper hygiene and sanitation for the betterment of society.
Governor Yusuf expressed his gratitude to development partners, religious leaders, and the Emirate Councils for their ongoing support.
He assured them of his administration’s continuous backing of health programs aimed at improving the welfare of Kano’s citizens.
Deputy Governor Comrade Aminu Abdussalam Gwarzo, who also chairs the State Task Force on Polio Eradication, lauded the governor’s unwavering dedication to healthcare issues. “The governor’s timely intervention and commitment are commendable,” Gwarzo said.
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Meanwhile, Health Commissioner Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf explained that Dawakin Kudu was chosen as the flag-off location due to its unique health challenges, such as low immunization coverage and hard-to-reach communities. He called for targeted efforts to address these gaps.
The Emir of Kano, Malam Muhammadu Sanusi II, represented by Dr. Bashir Muhammad Dankadai, stressed the need for a robust public awareness campaign, urging households to embrace routine immunization as a means of protecting future generations.
The 2024 Polio Eradication campaign marks a continued effort by Kano State to secure the health of its youngest citizens, ensuring the hard-earned polio-free status of Nigeria is upheld.