by Zaknor Urang
The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) and the Cross River State Government have joined forces to emphasize the importance of vaccinating children against polio.
In an exclusive interview with FAD93.1FM, Calabar, Dr. Olusoji Akinleye, Health Specialist at UNICEF, stressed that the ongoing polio vaccination exercise is a critical step in protecting children from this debilitating disease.
“The polio vaccination exercise is ongoing and will end on May 8th. Parents should avail their children of this opportunity to ensure they are protected against polio,”
“We urge parents to disregard misinformation about vaccination and allow their wards to be vaccinated. Vaccination is a proven way to prevent the spread of polio and protect our children’s health.” Dr. Akinleye said.
Barr. Lucy Bassey, Permanent Secretary at the State Primary Health Care Development Agency (SPHCDA), echoed Dr. Akinleye’s sentiments, encouraging parents to take advantage of the vaccination exercise for children aged 0-5 years.
“We urge parents to avail their children of the opportunity to participate in the ongoing polio vaccination exercise. This is a crucial step in ensuring our children’s health and well-being,”
She added that the state government has also announced plans for a measles-rubella vaccination campaign scheduled for 2026.
According to Mrs. Nsa Ekpenyong, State Social Mobilization Officer at SPHCDA, efforts are ongoing, with the Obong of Calabar already informed about the initiative.
“Sensitization is ongoing, and we are confident that our people will take advantage of the measles-rubella vaccination campaign. We are working closely with traditional leaders and community influencers to ensure the success of this program,” Mrs. Ekpenyong said.
In a related discussion, Juliet Chiluwe, Chief UNICEF Field Officer, Enugu Field Office, highlighted the importance of partnering with UNICEF, stressing the benefits that can be derived from such collaboration.
“UNICEF is committed to supporting the government and people of Cross River State in improving the health and well-being of children. We believe that by working together, we can achieve great things and make a real difference in the lives of our children,” Ms. Chiluwe noted.
As the polio vaccination exercise comes to a close on May 8th, parents are urged to ensure their children are vaccinated to protect them against this debilitating disease. The state government and UNICEF remain committed to improving the health and well-being of children in Cross River State.
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