The Borno State Government and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) are committed to zero polio infections as the recorded cases continue to drop since 2025 in the state..

The UN agency said the circulating variant poliovirus cases in Borno State have dropped from eight last year to three in 2026, as efforts continue to eliminate the virus from the affected communities..

UNICEF’s Chief of Maiduguri Field Office, Francis Butichi, made this known on Saturday during a football match organised for the polio survivors in Maiduguri as part of activities to mark the 2026 World Polio Day.

Butichi further revealed: “Borno State has made encouraging progress in the fight against polio, reducing reported circulating variant polio virus (cVPV) cases from eight in 2025 to three in 2026.”

He added, “What this means is that in 2025, we had eight cases. Through the works of government, and partners, we have dropped that to three cases in 2026, which is a good indicator that all of us are working

He noted that the achievements reflected the dedication of the state government, health workers, community and religious leaders, development partners, volunteers and caregivers across the stat
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“But while we celebrate this progress, the fight is not over. Three cases are still one too many and our goal remains clear: zero polio cases in Borno State,” he stressed

Butichi explained that the football match organised for polio survivors symbolised the collective commitment of stakeholders to a polio-free future in the state.

“Today is more than just a football match. It symbolises our collective commitment to a polio-free future and demonstrates the unity of communities, government, partners, caregivers and survivors in the fight against polio,” said Butichi.

He continued: said: “This reminds us of the importance of strengthening primary healthcare services so that every child, regardless of location, has access to vaccination and other essential health services.”

“As we enjoyed this match, let us remember that our greatest victory will be achieved when no child in Borno suffers from polio virus again.”

He said the upcoming polio campaign in October and November presented a critical opportunity to protect every child and close the remaining immunity gaps.

“As we approach World Polio Day 2026 on 24 October, I call on government, partners, community leaders, parents, and caregivers to renew their commitment to immunisation and child health,” Butichi said.

The UNICEF chief, therefore appreciated the efforts of the state government, media and other stakeholders in protecting the health and future of children.

“On behalf of UNICEF, I thank the Borno State Government, our partners, community leaders, members of the polio survivors group, the media and all stakeholders for their continued dedication to protecting the health and future of children,” he stated.