The World Health Organization (WHO) and Adamawa Government have called on all stakeholders to renew their commitment in the fight against Polio in the state and Nigeria.
Dr Suleiman Bashir, Executive Secretary, Adamawa Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ADPHCDA), made the call at the commemoration of 2024 World Polio Day in Yola on Monday.
Bashir said, the day was set aside to build consensus, renew commitment and actions by all stakeholders in Polio eradication effort.
“As you have seen, we made remarkable progress, we reached a point of elimination and certification as a country but we begin to see signs of reversal, pointing to the fact that its not yet over.
“We have reached elimination, we want to reach eradication, we must clear it completely from existence.
“Despite the fact that we have some threats emerging due to insecurity in areas that have limited healthcare and areas that have difficult terrains, we can achieve this.
Mr Zirra Mathias , Permanent Secretary Ministry of Health and Human Services assured the public that with the commitment of government and partners, polio would be eradicated .
He called on all stakeholders to contribute their quota towards enlightening parents to ensure their children below the age of five, received the vaccination.
Dr Matshidiso Moeti, WHO’s Regional Director, represented by Adamawa Co-ordinator, Dr Ahemen Terseer said, strong political commitment was crucial to the fight against Polio.
“I call on governments, partners and communities to recommit to this cause . Let us honour the sacrifices and dedication of the health workers, community leaders and families, who make this progress possible,” he said.
Alhaji Ahmed Mustapha, District Head of Girei, appreciated the effort of government and partners on their commitments and assured them of continued support towards eradication of Polio.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that street walk was staged as part of sensitisation and a presentation of awards to various stakeholders for their contributions in the fight against Polio