Kwara Reaffirms Commitment to Polio Eradication, Strengthens Immunization Collaboration
The Kwara State Government has restated its commitment to achieving a healthier population through sustained immunization programmes, with a renewed focus on eradicating polio and other preventable childhood diseases.
This was disclosed at a Review Meeting on the Abuja Commitment held on Wednesday at G Pinnacle Hotel, Ilorin, which brought together local government chairmen, traditional rulers, and development partners across the state.
The Deputy Governor of Kwara State, Mr. Kayode Alabi—represented by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam—emphasised that immunization remains a key pillar for public health and sustainable development in the state. He commended local government chairmen for their active participation in ensuring that no child is left behind in ongoing vaccination campaigns.
He also called for stronger local-level engagement, urging timely participation in review meetings and prompt release of counterpart funding to support immunization activities. Traditional rulers were further appreciated for their continued support and influence in mobilising communities for vaccination uptake.
The Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Primary Health Care Development Agency (KWSPHCDA), Prof. Nusirat Elelu, also urged deeper collaboration with traditional institutions, particularly in addressing cases of vaccine non-compliance. She noted that while ad-hoc health workers are selected locally, traditional authorities play a key role in validating their credibility.
Speaking on behalf of local government chairmen, the Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Kwara State, Hon. Abubakar Abdullahi, pledged continued support for the health sector. He also assured that health workers would be provided with adequate security to improve service delivery.
Presenting updates on Nigeria’s polio situation, the World Health Organization (WHO) State Coordinator, Dr. Eyitayo Emmanuel, highlighted ongoing challenges affecting routine immunization. He called for intensified public awareness campaigns through radio, social media, and community engagement, stressing the importance of collective responsibility.
Similarly, a representative of the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Mr. Bolaji Adebayo, underscored the impact of polio on child development and national progress, urging sustained vaccination coverage to protect children’s future.
Traditional rulers, led by the Emir of Shonga and Chairman of the Northern Traditional Leaders Council on Health, Dr. Haliru Yahaya, reaffirmed their commitment to supporting immunization campaigns. He noted that traditional institutions would continue to play active roles in mobilising communities and improving vaccine acceptance.
The meeting concluded with renewed commitments from all stakeholders to strengthen collaboration and ensure that Kwara State remains aligned with national and global efforts toward polio eradication and improved child health outcomes.
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