UNICEF, Rotary, and Bauchi Govt Renew Drive to Strengthen Immunisition Systems as Nigeria Nears Polio Eradication

From Paul Orude Bauchi 

As Nigeria edges closer to achieving a polio-free status, the Bauchi State Government, in collaboration with the Rotary Club and the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), has reiterated the need to strengthen immunisation systems and community engagement to sustain the gains recorded in the fight against the disease.

This call was made during a symbolic road walk in Bauchi to commemorate the 2025 World Polio Day, themed “End Polio: Every Child, Every Vaccine, Everywhere.”

UNICEF Global Special Behavioral Change Manager and Head of World Polio Outbreak Response, Dr. Panchanan Achari, said that while Nigeria has made remarkable progress in reducing polio transmission, the country must now focus on consolidating health systems to prevent any resurgence.

Achari noted that the fight against polio has gone beyond vaccination alone, stressing the importance of integrating immunization with other primary health care services such as nutrition, maternal care, and water and sanitation programs.

“Strengthening primary healthcare delivery will not only protect children from polio but also improve overall community health outcomes,” he said. “Now is not the time to slow down. We must sustain momentum until every child, in every corner of the country, is reached.”

He praised frontline workers and survivors for their resilience and contributions to the campaign, describing them as “symbols of courage and community leadership.”

Achari also urged traditional rulers, religious leaders, and youth groups to intensify grassroots advocacy to dispel misinformation about vaccines and build public confidence in immunization programs.

Speaking at the event, the President of the Rotary Club of Bauchi Central, Adekunle Adeyemi, reaffirmed Rotary’s unwavering commitment to global health through sustained support for immunization and disease prevention programs.

Adeyemi noted that Rotary International has been at the forefront of the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), working with UNICEF, WHO, and governments to ensure that no child is left behind.“Rotary’s mission goes beyond eradicating polio; it is about building stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities,” he said. “We will continue to work hand in hand with our partners to sustain zero polio transmission and promote wider access to healthcare.”

The event, which drew participation from health workers, volunteers, and community leaders, underscored the shared commitment of stakeholders to not only end polio but also to strengthen the foundation for universal child health in Nigeria