By our correspondent

A wave of activity swept through Nasarawa State as the April 2025 round of the National Immunization Plus Days (NIPDs) kicked off, marking yet another milestone in Nigeria’s ongoing effort to eradicate vaccine-preventable diseases, particularly poliomyelitis. At the heart of this critical public health initiative was a hands-on leadership approach, led by Dr. Usman Iskilu Saleh, the Executive Secretary of the Nasarawa State Primary Health Care Development Agency (NAPHDA).

On Day One of the campaign, Dr. Saleh spearheaded a high-level supervisory mission across key local government areas (LGAs), starting in Keffi. He was joined by an influential delegation that included the Honorable Commissioner for Information, the State Immunization Officer, and strategic partners from the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF.

The purpose of this oversight mission was clear: to ensure that immunization teams were on the ground, reaching every eligible child with life-saving vaccines, and to reinforce the state government’s commitment to public health, transparency, and accountability.

“We are here to ensure that no child is left behind,” Dr. Saleh said during one of the field stops. “The state government is fully committed to reaching every ward, every household, and every child—no matter how remote. Our goal is to protect our children from preventable diseases, and that begins with strong community engagement and effective service delivery.”

The team visited Tudun Kofa Ward in Keffi LGA, a densely populated community where parents and caregivers had gathered in large numbers, eager to ensure their children received the oral polio vaccine. Here, the delegation observed health workers administering vaccines and encouraged them to continue their work with diligence and empathy.

From there, the team proceeded to Garaku Ward in Kokona LGA, a rural community that has historically posed challenges in terms of access and mobilization. Despite these challenges, the atmosphere was vibrant. Traditional leaders, local influencers, and community volunteers worked hand-in-hand with healthcare workers, showcasing the deep-rooted collaboration that has become a hallmark of successful immunization drives.

The supervisory tour didn’t end there. Dr. Saleh and his team extended their visit to parts of Karu LGA, another critical location given its proximity to the Federal Capital Territory and its status as a high-risk area for cross-border disease transmission. Here, they met with local health officials, visited temporary fixed-posts and outreach sites, and interacted with parents to gauge community sentiment.

The April 2025 NIPDs campaign is part of a larger, nationwide effort to strengthen herd immunity and prevent outbreaks of polio, measles, and other vaccine-preventable illnesses. With the support of international partners such as WHO and UNICEF, and under the watchful eye of the state government, Nasarawa’s health system continues to strive for greater resilience and coverage.

For many, the presence of top health officials and international stakeholders on the ground served as a strong message: immunization is a top priority, and every stakeholder—from the grassroots to the global level—has a role to play in safeguarding the health of Nigeria’s children.

As the campaign continues in the days ahead, the groundwork laid on Day One sets a powerful precedent. It exemplifies not only the operational logistics of a public health drive but also the leadership, coordination, and community spirit that fuel its success.

In the words of Dr. Saleh , “Today is more than an inspection; it’s a statement of intent. We are committed to building a healthier, safer Nasarawa for our future generations.”