UNICEF Engages Journalists in Katsina to Strengthen Fight Against Polio in Nigeria
By Zaharaddeen Ishaq Abubakar | Katsina Times
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), through its Kano zonal office, convened a strategic media engagement on April 15, 2025, at Alhujurat Hotel in Katsina State, as part of its intensified campaign to eradicate poliomyelitis in Nigeria. The event brought together representatives from various media organisations across the region to enhance public awareness and cooperation in the ongoing immunisation efforts.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Karanveer Singh, Head of Nutrition at UNICEF Kano and acting Chief of the UNICEF Kano Field Office, underscored the critical importance of the upcoming national immunisation round. “The 2025 Polio Immunisation Round is scheduled to hold from April 24 to 30. It is vital that every child aged 0 to 5 years receives the vaccine. Global eradication of polio can only be achieved if the virus is eliminated from every corner of the earth,” he stated.
Dr. Singh acknowledged the significant milestones achieved in the fight against polio but noted persistent challenges, particularly the reluctance of some parents and caregivers to comply with immunisation protocols. He urged media professionals to continue disseminating accurate and impactful messages to boost public understanding, in collaboration with religious and community leaders, the Ministry of Health, and other stakeholders.
He added, “The vaccine is safe and effective. Until we reach and sustain over 95% immunisation coverage in each campaign round, we remain at risk. That’s the reality.”
Also speaking at the forum, Dr. Shamsuddeen, Director of the Katsina State Primary Health Care Development Agency, revealed that the state has adopted innovative strategies to ensure eligible children are reached. “We have reinforced our supervision and accountability mechanisms. Any health worker found to be negligent or non-compliant will face disciplinary action,” he declared.
Dr. Shamsuddeen also highlighted efforts to curb fraudulent practices such as fake finger marking and data falsification. He noted that during this immunisation round, children will be vaccinated publicly in community settings, instead of the usual house-to-house approach. To enhance transparency and coverage, over 3,700 independent monitors—including retired health professionals, teachers, and members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC)—have been deployed across the state.
He further revealed that Katsina State currently boasts 1,636 functional health facilities offering routine immunisation services. These centres are well-equipped, with adequate staffing and training provided to ensure quality service delivery. He affirmed that the state government, in collaboration with development partners, has ensured the timely distribution of vaccines from the central cold store to all localities. Solar-powered refrigeration systems are also in place to maintain vaccine potency.
Emphasising the role of the media, Dr. Shamsuddeen reiterated that public awareness is crucial to the success of the campaign. “Lack of awareness is one of the main reasons parents refuse to support immunisation. If people understand its importance, we will be able to reach those who have previously been missed,” he explained.
He concluded by commending the media for their continued efforts in promoting public health and reducing maternal and child mortality in Katsina State through timely and responsible reporting.
