Rotary International spends $3b on polio globally

Rotary International has spent $3 billion in the fight against poliovirus globally, Chair of the Rotary International Polio Plus Committee, Michael McGovern, has said.

The Rotary chief, who reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to eradicating polio in Nigeria, urged the Nigerian government and other stakeholders to remain steadfast in prioritising polio eradication efforts.

Speaking yesterday at the Masaka Primary Health Centre in Nasarawa State, where he participated in a symbolic polio immunisation exercise, McGovern emphasised the importance of continued efforts to protect children from the devastating effects of polio.

“Over the years, we have invested nearly $3 billion. It’s a lot of money, but we are happy to do it because we see the benefit: 20 million children who have not been disabled.

“The biggest impression that everyone has to have here is to see the beautiful children and recognise the importance of their health.”

“Ensuring they receive necessary immunisations is vital for them to live healthy lives,” he said.