Zulaihat Dikko Radda, the First Lady of Katsina State and a dedicated advocate in the fight against polio, has launched a renewed initiative to eliminate this crippling disease across the state.
At a special event held at the Government House in Katsina to commemorate World Polio Day, Radda highlighted the critical need for strengthened collaboration among families, community leaders, and healthcare professionals to sustain progress in the battle against polio and other preventable childhood diseases.
“On this World Polio Day, we are reminded that the fight against this debilitating illness remains a top priority, particularly in areas like Katsina,” Radda remarked.
She urged parents to ensure their children receive the complete immunization regimen, describing vaccination as “an invaluable safeguard that every child deserves for a healthy future.” Furthermore, she called on traditional and religious leaders to leverage their influence to promote widespread acceptance of vaccines within their communities.
Addressing concerns about the increasing cases of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2), Radda disclosed that Nigeria has recorded over 70 cases across 14 states and 46 local government areas in 2024, with Katsina identified as a major transmission zone.
“This year, Katsina alone has reported 17 cases, including two recent infections in Danmusa Local Government Area,” she stated. “These children should be enjoying their early years free from preventable illnesses.”
She reaffirmed her commitment to reaching every child in Katsina through the state’s immunization programs.
Rahama Mohammed Farah, head of the UNICEF Field Office in Kano, commended Katsina’s revitalized efforts, emphasizing that a polio-free Nigeria is achievable through sustained community engagement and strong political will.
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“The eradication of polio is within reach, but it demands persistent and united action,” Farah emphasized. “Every child deserves a future free from the burdens of polio.”
He added that UNICEF, in partnership with government agencies and local organizations, has mobilized thousands of vaccination teams throughout Katsina to ensure no child is missed.
Shamsudeen Yahaya, executive secretary of the Katsina State Primary Health Care Agency, also vowed to intensify awareness campaigns targeting polio and other life-threatening childhood diseases across all 34 local government areas in the state.
The occasion gathered representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO), polio survivors, UNICEF officials, and the spouses of all 34 local government chairpersons in Katsina State.