The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has issued a key message on polio eradication, noting that it is within reach only if momentum is sustained.

This was stated by the UNICEF Chief of Field Office, Sokoto, Dr Michael Juma, during a media dialogue on the April 2026 fIPV polio campaign in Zamfara State.

Dr Juma, who was represented by UNICEF Social Policy Specialist, Isah Ibrahim, said that it is critical to put more efforts and ensure a polio-free environment at the state level.

“To achieve this, UNICEF knows that some key messages must be emphasized, such as Polio eradication is within reach, but only if we sustain momentum”, he added.

“Progress to end polio is at risk. Despite remarkable global progress, children remain vulnerable, and outbreaks of the polio virus threaten gains made over decades”

“Vaccines work. Polio vaccines are safe, effective, and our strongest defence against paralysis and death”

UNICEF noted explained that, by working together, a healthier future for all children can be created in
Zamfara State.

“In this fiscal year, five States in Nigeria have reported cases, with a total of 18 cVPV2 and two cVPV3 cases. Of these, eight cases of Type 2 virus are from Zamfara, four cases each from Sokoto and Kebbi, one case each from Kwara and Bauchi, and two additional cases of Type 3 polio virus reported from Kebbi State, which shows continuous transmission”

“According to the recent National Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS), Penta 3 coverage in Zamfara State is still low, and the state is one of those with a high number of zero-dose children in Nigeria”

“UNICEF expresses gratitude to the state and local governments, health workers, and traditional and religious leaders for their invaluable support in reaching more children in zero-dose communities in Zamfara State.”

“There is real hope for a polio-free Africa. Since 2023, strong national leadership and support from GPEI partners have driven a decline in cases”

“UNICEF would like to appeal to all stakeholders, in particular the media, to engage in intensive social mobilisation of households to ensure that all children are brought out for vaccination against polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases, so that no child is left behind”

UNICEF reassured its full commitment to supporting the leadership of the state in ensuring that every child is fully vaccinated against vaccine-preventable diseases such as polio.”