Polio Eradication: Bauchi Govt Reaffirms Commitment

By Khalid Idris Doya

Bauchi, Bauchi State, Nigeria

October 30, 2025(Series News Online)

The Bauchi State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to the global fight against polio, describing the disease as one that once struck fear into families worldwide but is now on the verge of eradication. The Executive Chairman of the Bauchi State Primary Healthcare Board, Dr. Rilwanu Mohammed, stated this during the 2025 World Polio Day celebration in Bauchi.

Dr. Rilwanu credited the remarkable progress made in polio eradication to decades of dedication, innovation, and collaboration among the Bauchi State Government, development partners, and committed health workers. He warned that "Polio remains a threat in some parts of the world," emphasizing the need for governments and partners to remain vigilant through robust surveillance, rapid outbreak response, and strengthened routine immunization systems.

The celebration featured a road walk through major streets in the metropolis, with participants calling for a polio-free world. Dr. Rilwanu noted that achieving a polio-free world is not only a moral responsibility but also a strategic investment in the health and security of future generations.

Mr. Panchanan Achari, Social Behavior Change Manager of UNICEF, described World Polio Day as a moment to celebrate global progress and renew collective commitment to ensuring no child is left unprotected. He highlighted vaccines as safe, effective, and essential, noting that each dose not only prevents polio but also strengthens health systems and shields children from other preventable diseases.

Mr. Adeyemi Adekunle, President of the Rotary Club of Bauchi Central, reiterated Rotary's longstanding commitment to peacebuilding, disease prevention, sanitation, maternal and child health, and economic development. He reaffirmed Rotary's continued support for the global fight against polio, noting that the Bauchi road walk was organized to honor the resilience of polio survivors.

The event drew participation from government officials, UNICEF and WHO representatives, Rotarians, and polio survivors, all united in their shared determination to end polio once and for all.