By Ahmed Dan Asabe Lokoje
A significant milestone has been achieved in Kogi State's efforts to maintain its polio-free status. According to the State Immunization Officer, Dr. Grace Ojofedo, a total of 77,495 children have been immunized against polio in remote communities across seven Local Government Areas of the state.
The immunization exercise, dubbed the "Big Catch-Up Program," was carried out between January 6 and January 13, 2025, and achieved an impressive 99% coverage rate. However, the program also recorded a 5% wastage rate. Dr. Ojofedo revealed that the exercise targeted communities that were not properly captured in the last year's immunization program.
The state government has expressed its commitment to maintaining its 10-year-old polio-free status, and the recent immunization exercise is a significant step in that direction. Dr. Ojofedo praised UNICEF for its contribution to the program, stating that the agency's support is crucial in helping the state maintain its zero polio status.
"The program was done in 7 LGAs in the state. A total of 80,608 vaccines were used, and a total number of 77,495 children were immunized," Dr. Ojofedo said. She added that the recent exercise has helped the state consolidate on its achievements in the first phase of polio immunization last year, taking the immunization program to every nook and cranny of the state.
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