Korede Abdullah in Lagos
The Ondo State Primary Health Care Development Agency (OSPHCDA) has called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, NGOs, market leaders and the media to intensify efforts towards achieving full polio immunisation coverage across the state.
Speaking at a stakeholders’ meeting in Akure on Thursday ahead of the National Immunisation Plus Days (NIPDs) scheduled for June 28 to July 1, the Permanent Secretary, Francis Akanbiemu, said, “We called you again because without you, nothing can be achieved. Please, don’t be tired… speak for children’s health.”
Mr Akanbiemu stressed that Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa remains committed to quality healthcare for all residents, noting that the governor “supports every activity that will promote healthcare in the state.”
He praised development partners for their continued support, which he said contributed to the success of previous immunisation rounds. He urged stakeholders to maintain their dedication so that children between ages 0 and 59 months can receive the life-saving vaccine.
The World Health Organisation’s representative, Adebayo Ibraheem, highlighted the urgency of the campaign, warning that “Nigeria is currently battling with variants of poliomyelitis.”
He commended Ondo’s outstanding record in immunisation while urging stakeholders to sustain the momentum.
Also, UNICEF Consultant Moronke Orhorhamreru encouraged stakeholders to tackle vaccine hesitancy and rumours by spreading accurate information throughout communities, streets and religious centres.
