Nigeria Faces Surge in Polio Cases with 70 Reported Across 14 Northern States

 

Nigeria is witnessing a significant outbreak of circulating variant poliovirus type 2 (cVPV2), with 70 cases detected across 46 local government areas in 14 northern states, according to the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA).

Dr. Muyi Aina, Executive Director of the NPHCDA, revealed this concerning situation during a meeting in Abuja on Monday. The event was organized in partnership with the Sultan Foundation for Peace and Development and included religious leaders.

Dr. Aina pointed to low routine immunization rates and vaccine hesitancy during polio campaigns as major factors contributing to the virus's spread. He called for stronger efforts to improve vaccination coverage and maternal and child healthcare services. “We must ensure that every woman has access to antenatal care and that every child completes their routine immunization,” Dr. Aina stated, stressing the importance of leaving no mother or child behind.

He urged religious leaders to play a key role in promoting vaccinations and healthcare within their communities. “As trusted leaders, you have the ability to dispel myths and correct misinformation,” Dr. Aina said, highlighting the importance of equitable healthcare access.

The Sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Muhammad Sa’ad Abubakar III, praised religious and traditional leaders for their efforts in health mobilization, including the eradication of the wild poliovirus. He encouraged continued support through contributions such as zakat and tithes to fund health initiatives for the less privileged.

The meeting emphasized the urgent need to remove healthcare barriers in rural and underserved areas, especially in Northern Nigeria, where maternal and child health challenges remain severe. Dr. Aina noted that Nigeria loses about 2,300 children under the age of five and 145 women of childbearing age daily from preventable causes, with many of these deaths occurring in the North.

The NPHCDA reaffirmed its commitment to working closely with community leaders to ensure that all Nigerian children are immunized and that mothers receive the necessary care to survive childbirth and secure their children’s health.