Stakeholders, including the WHO and Nigerian health officials, have reinforced their commitment to eradicating polio in Nigeria by December 2025. Emphasis was placed on the vital role of traditional leaders in mobilizing communities for vaccination efforts. Despite challenges like vaccine hesitancy and security issues, collaborative actions are being taken to ensure every child is vaccinated. Recent NTLC meetings facilitate ongoing discussions to enhance polio eradication strategies.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has reaffirmed its dedication to assisting Nigeria in enhancing its Primary Health Care (PHC) system to effectively eradicate all forms of polioviruses by December 2025. During the recent First Quarter Review Meeting of the Northern Traditional Leaders Committee (NTLC), WHO Country Representative Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo spoke about the urgent need for action toward this goal.
Professor Muhammad Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, acknowledged the traditional leaders’ significant efforts in mobilizing communities for polio vaccination campaigns. He emphasized the necessity to eliminate circulating variant poliovirus type 2 (cVPV2) and urged traditional leaders to intensify their community engagement.
In his remarks, Dr. Mulombo praised the commitment displayed by the Nigerian government and traditional leaders, highlighting the critical role they play in combating polio. He noted the challenges faced in 2024 and called for decisive action to eradicate cVPV2 while also pledging WHO’s support in improving Nigeria’s polio laboratory capabilities.
Despite advancements, Nigeria continues to report cases of cVPVD2. Dr. Muyi Aina, Executive Director of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), identified persistent challenges, including vaccine hesitancy and security issues. He appealed for robust community engagement to ensure all children are vaccinated, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among NTLC members.
Alhaji Sama’ila Muhammad Mera, Emir of Argungu and NTLC Chair, thanked partners for their ongoing support and urged traditional leaders to work closely with community influencers to increase vaccination uptake. He addressed concerns over routine immunization coverage in North Central and North West Nigeria, advocating for effective tracking systems to ensure every child receives necessary vaccinations.
The NTLC quarterly meetings play a crucial role in monitoring progress and addressing challenges in polio eradication, routine immunization, and maternal and child health. The recent meeting included updates on Nigeria’s polio program, routine immunization efforts, and the introduction of the rubella vaccine, with various partners sharing their insights.
The WHO’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s public health initiatives aims to eradicate polio by December 2025. Traditional leaders play a vital role in this mission, emphasizing the need for increased community engagement and vaccination efforts. Despite challenges, continuous dialogue and strategic collaborations among stakeholders are crucial in overcoming barriers to immunization. The recent NTLC meeting underscores the collective drive to end polio transmission in Nigeria.
Original Source: www.afro.who.int
