Adamawa to Vaccinate 1.4 Million Children Against Polio Virus

Adamawa State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has launched a massive immunization campaign targeting over 1.4 million children across the state.

The vaccination drive, which has officially kicked off aims to immunize children aged 0 to 59 months.

UNICEF has donated 1,433,300 doses of polio vaccines to support the campaign, reinforcing its commitment to strengthening child health in Nigeria.

According to officials, the exercise will run from April 26 to April 29, 2025, and will cover all 21 local government areas of the state.

To ensure the campaign’s success, a total of 2,778 trained personnel including vaccinators, recorders, and community mobilizers have been deployed.

Special mobile teams have also been assigned to reach children at markets, playgrounds, schools, and places of worship to ensure that no eligible child is left out.

Community leaders and religious institutions have been engaged to help spread awareness and encourage participation.

Speaking during the flag-off ceremony in Yola, Adamawa State’s Commissioner for Health, Mr. Felix Tangwami, emphasized the importance of maintaining a polio-free status.

“We have come a long way in fighting polio. This exercise is crucial to protect our children and prevent any resurgence of the virus,” he said.
He also urged parents and guardians to take advantage of the free and safe vaccination to secure the health of their children.

Adamawa has remained polio-free for several years, but health authorities warn that continuous immunization efforts are necessary, especially given the risks of importation from neighboring areas.

UNICEF representatives at the event praised Adamawa’s proactive approach and reaffirmed their support for Nigeria’s goal of achieving total polio eradication.

Residents are encouraged to cooperate fully with vaccination teams during the four-day exercise.