UNICEF has expressed concern over the continued presence of the polio virus in Katsina State and has pledged to collaborate with the state government to make its eradication a top priority in 2025.
This commitment was reaffirmed on Thursday during the signing of the UNICEF-Katsina State Multi-Year Work Plan for 2025–2027 at the Government House Chamber in Katsina.
Speaking at the event, the Chief of UNICEF’s Kano Field Office, Mr. Rahama Farah—represented by Health Manager Dr. Sereke Deres—highlighted the threat polio still poses to children’s health in the state.
“Polio continues to endanger children’s lives in Katsina,” he said. “Eliminating it must be our number one goal next year. We need to mobilize communities, raise awareness, and ensure full vaccine coverage across the state.”
Farah also stressed the importance of leadership at local levels, calling on government officials, community and religious leaders to take responsibility and combat vaccine hesitancy. He urged the government to use its own resources, foster public-private partnerships, and strengthen community initiatives to ensure every child is vaccinated.
Additionally, he advocated for increased funding in health, nutrition, WASH, child protection, and social protection to build resilient systems less dependent on external aid.
Governor Dikko Radda reaffirmed his administration’s commitment, noting that a N500 million counterpart fund had already been provided for UNICEF programmes in the state. He promised continued support to ensure the success of the multi-year work plan.
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