The Kaduna State Government has raised alarm over new cases of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus (cVDPV), warning that Nigeria’s polio-free status is under threat.
At an event to mark World Polio Day 2025 in Kaduna, Commissioner for Health Umma Ahmed, represented by Dr. Hamza Ibrahim Ikara, said the resurgence highlights the need for stronger routine immunisation and sustained vigilance.
“Kaduna State has reported three vaccine-derived polio cases in the last two months, with Giwa Local Government Area recording the most recent,” Ikara said.
“Days like this renew our resolve to end polio completely.”
She said the government has declared a state of emergency on immunisation to boost coverage, strengthen surveillance, and mobilise communities, especially in hard-to-reach areas.
UNICEF Health Specialist, Dr. Idris Baba, noted that while 99 percent of the eradication goal has been achieved, “the remaining one percent still threatens the global community.”
We have achieved 99 percent success in the eradication journey, but that remaining one percent still threatens the global community,” he said.
We stand in solidarity with Kaduna State and Nigeria to finish the job.”
Rotary International’s representative, Alhaji Aruna Usman, urged continued focus on routine immunisation, especially in insecure and remote communities.
“Despite being certified polio-free, isolated cases still exist. We must strengthen routine immunisation, especially in insecure and remote areas, to sustain our gains,” he said.
Representatives of WHO, Solina, Chigari Foundation, and polio survivors also attended the event. Survivors shared their stories to encourage vaccination and fight misinformation.
