Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has issued a stern warning to parents in Kano State, urging them not to refuse polio vaccinations for their children.
Speaking through his deputy, Comrade Abdulsalam Gwarzo, at the flag-off of the first round of the 2025 polio vaccination campaign in Warawa Local Government Area, the governor emphasized that anyone obstructing the immunization efforts would face firm consequences.
This warning follows the recent discovery of three new polio cases in Warawa, Bunkure, and Nassarawa LGAs, sparking urgent action to curb the spread of the virus. Governor Yusuf revealed that investigations have found that some families were refusing to present their children for immunization, a decision that could jeopardize public health and increase the risk of a wider outbreak.
“There is no religious justification for rejecting vaccines,” Governor Yusuf stated, pointing to the successful efforts of Islamic countries such as Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Iran, and Indonesia in eliminating polio through vaccination. “This is not about religion—it’s about the love and care you have for your child,” he added.
The governor appealed to parents across the state to fully cooperate with the vaccination drive and ensure their children are immunized before the campaign’s deadline in December. He stressed the government’s dedication to improving healthcare and safeguarding public health.
Dr. Labaran Yusuf, the Commissioner for Health, also addressed the gathering, discussing the challenges posed by the influx of immigrants into the state. He assured the public that efforts were in place to ensure all children, whether born in Kano or newly arrived, are vaccinated and properly documented.
Mr. Michael Banda, Chief of UNICEF’s Kano Field Office, also spoke at the event, emphasizing the state’s vital role in the global fight against polio. He noted that while the polio vaccine has been responsible for a 99.9% reduction in cases since 1988, the threat of the virus still remains, with even one case potentially leading to a resurgence.
“The polio vaccine is safe and effective,” Banda assured, reaffirming UNICEF’s commitment to supporting Kano State’s efforts to vaccinate every child and engage the community to ensure the success of the campaign.
In response, the Kano State Government has ramped up public awareness campaigns and community outreach to ensure that polio vaccination efforts reach every child in the state, aiming for full vaccination coverage and the eventual eradication of polio.
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