By Akanta Hannah
United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), in collaboration with Taraba State Government, has launched a massive polio vaccination campaign targeting over one million children under the age of five across the sixteen local government areas of the state.
The campaign, which is part of the National Immunization Plus Days, NIPD, aims to boost immunization coverage and deliver vital health services to children and women.
Speaking during the flag-off ceremony in Jalingo the Taraba state Capital, Chief Field Officer of UNICEF’s Bauchi Field Office, Dr. Nuzhat Rafique emphasized that global attention is on Nigeria to eradicate polio, one of the few remaining countries still battling the virus.
“The goal of this vaccination drive is to achieve 100% coverage across Taraba State.
“This year, the whole world is watching Nigeria’s efforts to end polio. We are spearheading this campaign to ensure the virus is completely stamped out.”
Dr. Rafique applauded the commitment of the Taraba State Government and development partners in the fight against polio, assuring that no child would be left behind in the exercise.
Also speaking, Executive Secretary of the Taraba State Primary Health Care Development Agency (TSPHCDA), Dr. Nuhu Tukura stated that all necessary measures are in place for the campaign’s success.
He explained that the integration of other antigens into the vaccination exercise would allow more children to benefit from comprehensive immunization services.
“We appreciate UNICEF and our partners for their continued support.
“Through this campaign, we are reaching more children with critical vaccines and promoting healthier communities.”
Chairman of Jalingo Local Government Area, Aminu Jauro, urged parents, guardians, and caregivers to ensure their children are available for vaccination, stressing the importance of collective responsibility in protecting children’s health.
He reaffirmed the state’s commitment to sustaining partnerships with UNICEF and other partners to enhance public health outcomes.
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