A total of 77,495 children were immunised against polio in hard-to-reach communities across seven local government areas of Kogi State, reinforcing the state’s decade-long polio-free status.
This milestone was announced by the State Immunisation Officer (SIO), Grace Ojofedo, during a briefing on Monday following the completion of the “Big Catch-Up” Polio Immunisation Programme.
Ojofedo explained that the programme targeted communities that were either missed or inadequately covered in the previous year’s immunisation campaign.
“The programme was conducted in seven LGAs of the state.
A total of 80,608 vaccines were administered, successfully immunising 77,495 children,” she revealed.
The exercise, held between January 6 and January 13, 2025, achieved a 99% coverage rate, despite recording a 5% vaccine wastage rate.
Ojofedo commended UNICEF for its critical support in maintaining Kogi State’s polio-free status.
“This latest exercise helped us consolidate the achievements made during the first phase of last year’s polio immunisation campaign.
With this, we have extended immunisation to every nook and cranny of the state,” she stated.
She further assured that the state government remains committed to safeguarding its polio-free status through continuous immunisation efforts, particularly in remote communities.
The initiative underscores the state’s dedication to eradicating polio and ensuring the health and well-being of its children.
