The Kano State Government has issued a stern warning to parents refusing to present their children for polio vaccination, vowing to take firm action against anyone obstructing the ongoing immunisation campaign.
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, represented by his Deputy, Comrade Abdulsalam Gwarzo, issued the warning on Monday during the flag-off of the first round of the 2025 polio vaccination exercise held at Warawa Local Government Area.
The campaign comes in response to the recent detection of three new polio cases in Warawa, Bunkure, and Nassarawa Local Government Areas, prompting urgent containment efforts. Governor Yusuf disclosed that investigations revealed some families were refusing to allow health officials to immunize their children, thereby endangering lives and risking a wider outbreak.
"There is no religious justification for rejecting vaccines," Yusuf said, citing examples of Islamic countries like Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Iran, and Indonesia that have successfully embraced vaccination and eradicated polio.
"This is not about religion—it’s about the love and care you have for your child," he stressed.
Governor Yusuf urged parents across the state to cooperate fully and ensure their children are vaccinated before the campaign’s deadline in December 2025, emphasizing the government's commitment to strengthening healthcare and protecting public health.
Speaking at the event, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Labaran Yusuf, noted the added challenge posed by the influx of immigrants into Kano State. He assured the public that mechanisms have been put in place to ensure that all children, including those recently arrived, are properly vaccinated and documented.
Also addressing the gathering, the Chief of UNICEF’s Kano Field Office, Mr. Michael Banda, stressed the critical role of Kano State in the global fight against polio.
"The polio vaccine is safe and effective. It has reduced polio cases by 99.9% since 1988. But the threat remains—just one case can cause a resurgence," Banda warned.
He reaffirmed UNICEF’s commitment to supporting Kano State in reaching every child and deepening community engagement to ensure the campaign’s success.
In response to the recent cases, the Kano State Government has intensified public awareness campaigns, community mobilization, and outreach activities, working closely with local and international partners to achieve full vaccination coverage and eradicate polio permanently.
