UNICEF and Rotary Club Reaffirm Commitment to Eradicate Polio in Nigeria

Strategic Insights -

Speaking during the World Polio Day rally in Bauchi, UNICEF's Global Special Behavioural Change Manager and Head of World Polio Outbreak Response, Dr. Panchanan Achari, called on governments, partners, and communities to intensify efforts to ensure that no child is left unvaccinated. The rally, which was attended by the Bauchi State Government, Rotary Club, and UNICEF, marked the beginning of a renewed push to eradicate polio in Nigeria. According to Dr. Achari, Nigeria has made significant progress in increasing immunisation coverage, but there is still a need to accelerate efforts to ensure no child is left behind.

Key Takeaways:

  • Dr. Panchanan Achari emphasized the importance of reaching every child with life-saving immunisation, particularly those in remote and underserved communities.
  • According to Dr. Achari, vaccines are safe, effective, and essential to protecting children from preventable diseases while also strengthening health systems.
  • The UNICEF Head of World Polio Outbreak Response commended the progress Nigeria has made over the years, but urged stakeholders not to relent until the country achieves and sustains a polio-free status.
  • Rotary International has long-standing contribution to global health, and has focused on humanitarian service and community development since its formation in 1905.
  • The President of the Rotary Club of Bauchi Central, Adekunle Adeyemi, reiterated the commitment of the club to the global fight against polio and pledged renewed efforts to ensure that Nigeria remains polio-free.
  • According to Adeyemi, Rotary has played a major role in reducing polio cases globally by supporting immunisation campaigns and community mobilisation.

Statistics:

  • According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), polio cases have reduced by approximately 99% since 1988, from over 350,000 cases to just 33 in 2020.
  • The Rotary Club channels resources through Rotary International to support key areas such as disease prevention, water and sanitation, maternal and child health, basic education, and environmental protection.
  • Since its formation in 1905, Rotary International has focused on humanitarian service and community development, supporting global health efforts including the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI).

Sources:

  • UNICEF Global Special Behavioural Change Manager and Head of World Polio Outbreak Response, Dr. Panchanan Achari
  • President of the Rotary Club of Bauchi Central, Adekunle Adeyemi
  • Rotary International
  • World Health Organisation (WHO)
  • UNICEF