UNICEF Warns of Rising Polio Cases as Kano Vows Eradication by 2025

• Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf pledged to eliminate polio by June 2025, reaffirming commitment to better healthcare, while UNICEF raised concerns about rising cases
• The Kano government, health officials, and international partners are focused on enhanced vaccination programs to combat polio and improve child healthcare

Kano State Governor Alhaji Abba Yusuf has pledged to eliminate polio by June 2025. He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to tackling the disease and ensuring better healthcare for children.

Meanwhile, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) representative in Kano, Mr. Rahma Rahood Muhammad, has raised concerns over a steady increase in polio cases between 2022 and 2025.

Speaking at an orientation training in Kaduna, organized by the state Ministry of Health, Governor Yusuf, represented by his deputy, Aminu Abdulsalam Gwarzo, emphasized that Kano is determined to eradicate polio and reduce maternal mortality. He stressed that achieving this goal is a top priority for the government.

The event brought together health personnel, 44 local government chairmen, and representatives of the Kano Emirate. The deputy governor highlighted that the presence of key government officials and traditional leaders underscores the seriousness of this initiative.

As the chairman of the state immunization committee, Gwarzo urged health workers, local government officials, and traditional rulers to monitor the immunization process in their communities actively.

He warned that any health worker who fails to show dedication will be replaced immediately with a more committed professional.

UNICEF’s representative also voiced concern over the number of children in Kano who remain unvaccinated and vulnerable to polio. He stressed the need for increased immunization efforts to protect every child in the state.

Along with health officials and international partners, the Kano government remains focused on eliminating polio and improving child healthcare through enhanced vaccination programs.