The Sokoto State Government has flagged off a fresh round of polio vaccination, reaffirming its resolve to wipe out the dangerous poliovirus type 2 from every corner of the state by the end of 2025.
By Usman Binji
The campaign, known as Outbreak Response (OBR) Round 2, kicks off on June 14 and runs through June 17, with an additional two-day mop-up to ensure no child is left out. The exercise targets all children under five — whether previously vaccinated or not — across all 244 wards in the state.
Speaking at the official launch, Deputy Governor Engr. Idris Muhammad Gobir, who represented Governor Dr. Ahmad Aliyu Sokoto, described polio as “a completely preventable tragedy,” stressing the importance of reaching every eligible child.
“We have come a long way in strengthening healthcare, and this campaign is another big step forward. No child in Sokoto should suffer from a disease we can prevent,” Gobir said.
The campaign will use a multi-pronged approach: health teams will go door-to-door, and mobile vaccination points will be stationed in schools, mosques, markets, churches, and playgrounds. Children will also be vaccinated on the move — wherever they are found — and receive small gifts like Indomie noodles and candies to encourage participation.
Traditional leaders have thrown their weight behind the effort. Representing the Sultan of Sokoto, Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar, the District Head of Bodinga, Bello Abdurrauf, assured the government of full grassroots support.
“Our communities trust their traditional leaders, and we will use that influence to mobilize parents and guardians. Together, we will get every child vaccinated,” he said.
Health Commissioner Faruku issued a clear warning: allowing even one child to miss vaccination could endanger others. “We must not let down our guard,” he urged.
Development partners — including UNICEF, the World Health Organization (WHO), and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation — were also present and praised Sokoto’s leadership and coordination.
Dr. Claude Monj, UNICEF’s Social and Behaviour Change (SBC) Polio Lead from Dakar, Senegal, highlighted the importance of listening to communities and ensuring caregivers are informed and engaged.
WHO State Coordinator Dr. Yusuf Argungu applauded Sokoto’s political will, while Dr. Shalizud Bang of the Gates Foundation emphasized the urgency of halting poliovirus type 2 transmission now — before it spreads further.
With political commitment, traditional support, and international partnership all aligned, Sokoto State is pressing forward with one clear goal: a future where no child ever suffers from polio again.
