By Bilkis Abdulraheem Lawal
Parents and guardians in Kwara State have been urged to ensure their children are presented for immunisation against polio and other preventable diseases.
The State Commissioner for Social Development, Hajiya Mariam Imam, made the call during a polio intervention campaign organised by the Kwara State Government in collaboration with the National Association of Persons with Disabilities (NAPWD), held in Ilorin.
Hajiya Imam advised parents to dispel myths and misconceptions surrounding vaccines and to ensure that their children receive all necessary immunisations to protect them from life-threatening diseases such as polio.
She commended members of the association and polio survivors for their resilience and determination, noting that they have refused to resort to begging for alms despite their challenges. The Commissioner encouraged them to continue to live purposeful lives and not allow their disabilities to define or limit them.
In her remarks, the Vice Chairman of NAPWD, Kwara State Chapter, Mrs Maryamu John, who represented the Chairman, Comrade Muftau Olesin, appealed to the State Government to establish a Commission for Persons with Disabilities. She explained that such a body would help to formulate and implement policies that advance the welfare and rights of persons with disabilities across the state.
Why It Matters
Nigeria remains at risk: Although Nigeria was declared free of wild poliovirus in 2020, health experts warn that low immunisation coverage in some communities could lead to a resurgence of vaccine-derived strains.
Children are most vulnerable: Routine immunisation protects children under five from deadly yet preventable diseases, including polio, measles, diphtheria, and whooping cough.
Fighting stigma: Events like this highlight the importance of inclusion, ensuring that persons with disabilities are not left behind in health and social development programmes.
Community responsibility: Sustained awareness, parental participation, and government support are crucial to maintaining Nigeria’s polio-free status.
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