A high-level delegation from the GPEI visited Nigeria to urge commitments for polio eradication. The delegation emphasized the need for improved leadership and accountability in addressing challenges such as insecurity and misinformation. Key meetings focused on assessing immunization strategies and strengthening routine vaccination efforts against the type 2 variant poliovirus.
A high-level delegation from the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) visited Abuja, Nigeria, on February 27-28, 2025, to intensify efforts to eradicate the type 2 variant poliovirus. The visit included discussions with government officials, traditional leaders, and various partners to reinforce commitments for overcoming persisting obstacles to polio eradication in Nigeria.
The delegation, led by Dr. Chris Elias, Chair of the Polio Oversight Board (POB), focused on evaluating progress and addressing challenges such as insecurity and vaccine misinformation, while striving to garner enhanced support for polio eradication initiatives.
Furthermore, the delegation interacted with key figures, including Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, who highlighted the need for sustained commitment to eradicate polio. Additionally, discussions with His Royal Highness Abubakar, Mai Bade, emphasized Nigeria’s determination to strengthen routine immunization against polio.
Meetings were held with Dr. Muyi Aina, Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, where the current viral epidemiology was assessed alongside recommendations from the 42nd Expert Review Committee (ERC), which included enhancing political leadership and improving vaccination strategies.
Despite extensive vaccination efforts in 2023-2024, there were 94 confirmed polio-affected children across 15 states within Nigeria as of February 15, 2025. Notably, no type 2 variant poliovirus cases have been documented in 2025, which underscores the significance of ongoing cooperative endeavors to fortify polio eradication efforts.
The POB delegation stressed the importance of collective renewed commitment from all stakeholders to prevent further transmission of the type 2 variant poliovirus. They agreed that the enhancement of routine immunization systems is vital to disrupting ongoing poliovirus transmission, enabling coordinated state and federal responses to bolster vaccine efforts.
In summary, the high-level delegation from the GPEI’s visit to Nigeria emphasized the urgency of addressing ongoing challenges to eradicate the type 2 variant poliovirus. Key discussions reinforced the commitment of Nigerian leaders to enhance polio outbreak responses and strengthen routine immunization systems, recognizing that these actions are critical for the health of children in Nigeria and surrounding regions. Continuous support and engagement from all sectors remain pivotal for achieving successful eradication.
Original Source: www.afro.who.int
