Zamafara Now Epicentre Of Polio Virus In Africa, Says Sultan Of Sokoto
Zamfara State has emerged as the epicentre of polio virus in Africa.
The state accounts for fifty per cent of cases of polio virus recorded in Nigeria
The sultan of Sokoto, Alhaji Saad Abubakar, raised the alarm in Gusau, at meeting organized by the national primary healthcare development agency, with the Sultan foundation for peace and development.
The Sultan, represented by emir of Argungu, Alhaji Ismail Meira, describes the high rate of polio virus in Zamfaraas worrisome.
Back in 2020, the world health organization had declared Nigeria as wild polio free, but gradually lost the status as it recorded 168 cases last year.
The sultan said from January to date, seven cases were posted in Gusau, six in Maradun, two in Maru, five in Gumi and one in Bungudu, all in the state, and a half of the total cases recorded so far this year in the country.
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Shuiab, represented by the Incident Manager, National Polio Emergency Operations Center (EOC), Dr Abdulkadir Gana, said the goal of the meeting was to stop the transmission of the circulating variant poliovirus type 2 by December of 2023.
“We also want to strengthen the existing system Primary Health Centres by introducing innovative strategies with your guidance.
“Last week, we held meeting with traditional rulers in Sokoto and Kebbi states.
“We had robust discussions on the way forward. We are in Zamfara today and we are hopeful of achieving the same objectives”, Shuiab explained.
“The NPHCDA has been committed to delivering healthcare services to all concerns of Nigeria regardless of the challenges.
With your support as traditional rulers who hold the wellbeing of your communities at hearts, we can overcome these obstacles and ensure that no child is left behind.
“My appeal to you, lend your wisdom, influence and support to this noble cause; let us work together to break down the barriers, build bridges and create a path towards a polio free-Zamfara,” the Executive Director explained. (NAN)
