UNICEF launches polio vaccination campaign in Katsina, targeting 2.8 million children under five to boost immunisation coverage

The United Nations Children’s Emergency Fund (UNICEF) has launched a large-scale polio vaccination campaign aimed at protecting 2.8 million children under the age of five across 361 wards in Katsina State.

Also read: Southern Governors’ Security Meeting in Gov. Abiodun’s Private Home Sparks Outrage Over Governance Optics

The initiative, flagged off in Katsina, emphasises the critical role of media and community engagement in reaching every child.

Mr. Rahama M. Farah, Chief of UNICEF’s Kano Field Office, praised the state for achieving a 90 percent coverage in previous rounds and highlighted the reduction of confirmed paralysis cases, currently limited to Danmusa Local Government Area.

“UNICEF’s renewed engagement with journalists reflects their crucial role in shaping public trust and helping parents understand the life-saving value of the vaccine,” Farah said.

He appealed to radio stations, especially those covering remote communities, to intensify sensitisation efforts.

The campaign also integrates additional child and maternal health services, including vitamin A supplements, deworming tablets, azithromycin, routine immunisation, and support for pregnant women.

Door-to-door, fixed post, and mobile teams have already been deployed across all local government areas.

Dr. Mukhtar Mahmud, representing the Executive Secretary of the Katsina State Primary Health Care Agency, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to child health.

He urged parents to ensure children aged 0–15 months complete all required vaccine doses, stressing that full immunisation remains the most effective protection against polio.

With more than 3,700 personnel, including nearly 2,000 house-to-house teams, the exercise covers markets, motor parks, remote villages, and hard-to-reach settlements.

UNICEF and state officials called for cooperation from parents, traditional leaders, and local councils to ensure no child is missed.

Ambassador Aminu Muhammad, National Consultant and State Polio Lead, and Dr. Sulaiman Haladu of the Polio Emergency Programme, highlighted the importance of collaboration and sustained investment in logistics, training, and community health systems.