The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has reiterated its commitment to eliminating the polio virus in Katsina State, Nigeria, as part of the newly signed 2025–2027 Multi-Year Work Plan with the state government.
During the official signing ceremony at the Government House in Katsina, Dr. Sereke Deres, representing UNICEF’s Kano Field Office, highlighted the urgent need to address the persistent threat polio poses to children’s health. He emphasized the importance of a united approach in 2025 to ensure no child is left unvaccinated.
“Polio remains a major threat to the well-being of children in Katsina. Eradicating it must be a top priority,” Deres stated. He called for massive community mobilization, awareness campaigns, and active involvement of local leaders, including traditional rulers and religious figures.
UNICEF plans to work closely with the Katsina State Government to reach even the most remote communities. Dr. Deres also urged the state to increase local resource use, invest in grassroots initiatives, and explore public-private partnerships to strengthen vaccination efforts.
Additionally, UNICEF called for more investment in critical sectors such as healthcare, nutrition, WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene), child protection, and social welfare to build a more resilient system.
Governor Dikko Radda reaffirmed his administration’s dedication, revealing that a N500 million counterpart fund was already disbursed to support UNICEF-led activities. He also pledged further funding for the 2025–2027 action plan.
“We will continue to support and partner with UNICEF to ensure every child in Katsina is safe from polio,” Governor Radda said. With this renewed partnership, Katsina State aims to eliminate polio by the end of 2025.
