The Kano State Governor, Abba Yusuf, has launched the 2024 Polio eradication campaign in Dawakin Kudu Local Government Area of the state, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to combating polio and other childhood killer diseases.
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.
This is contained in a statement issued by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Dawakin Tofa, on Saturday.
In his speech, Yusuf highlighted the state government’s determination to intensify vaccination efforts, working with health agencies and local communities to reach every nook and cranny of the state.
“Since Nigeria’s certification as a polio-free nation in August 2020, 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 called on parents to seize this opportunity to have their children vaccinated and to practice proper hygiene and sanitation for the betterment of society.
Yusuf expressed his gratitude to development partners, religious leaders, and the Emirate Council 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.
The state deputy governor, Aminu Gwarzo, who also chairs the Task Force on Polio Eradication, lauded the governor’s unwavering dedication to healthcare issues, adding, “The governor’s timely intervention and commitment are commendable.
The Commissioner of Health, Dr Abubakar Labaran, 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 and called for targeted efforts to address the challenges.
The Emir of Kano, Muhammadu Sanusi II, represented by Bashir 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 is part of the government’s effort to secure the health of its youngest citizens and ensure the hard-earned polio-free status of Nigeria is upheld.