A massive immunization drive is underway in Abuja as the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) takes bold steps to immunize over 1,116,677 children against polio, urging residents to throw their weight behind the National Immunization Plus Days (NIPDs) set for the 4th of May to the 10th, 2025.
The campaign was launched at the Palace of Sarki Jiwa over the weekend, with traditional and health leaders rallying support. Dr. Adedolapo Fasawe, the Mandate Secretary for Health Services and Environment, made it clear: “no eligible child in the FCT should miss the life-saving oral polio vaccine.”
Standing in for her, Dr. Babagana Adam, the Permanent Secretary, stressed the urgency. Vaccine-preventable diseases still pose a deadly threat to children across Nigeria and the FCT.
“We cannot afford complacency. From May 4 to 10, we must mobilize all mothers, caregivers, schools, churches, mosques to ensure every child is reached,” she said.
Fasawe highlighted the broader aim of the campaign beyond the jabs.
“The FCTA has adopted an integrated health approach to expose caregivers and children to multiple interventions that improve their health and allow them to thrive,” she said.
To reach every corner, the FCT is rolling out:
• 154 fixed post teams at health centers
• 1,152 house-to-house teams targeting homes, markets, schools, churches, and mosques
“These teams will ensure that no child no matter where they live is left behind. I rely on all of you present today to become NIPDs ambassadors and take this message to every corner of the FCT,” Fasawe added, tying the effort to Nigeria’s broader push to meet the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
At the event, HRH Dr. Idris Musa, Sarkin Jiwa, didn’t mince words.
“Enough is enough we cannot afford to waste any more time,” he said. “By tomorrow morning, all local chiefs and officials must be on the ground advising and supporting their communities. This is not the time to sit in offices.”
He drew attention to routine immunization gaps and cited how countries like Saudi Arabia require proof of polio vaccination for pilgrims a sign of global seriousness Nigeria must match.
“FCT is expanding, and infections are coming in. We must act fast and plan smarter,” he warned.
Musa announced plans for a high-level stakeholder meeting with organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) to fine-tune coordination.
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“Supervision is key. Let the Directors and Heads of Departments get out of their offices and into the field. That’s how we regain trust,” he said, pledging full support.
In a goodwill message, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, WHO’s Country Representative, hailed the FCT’s fast and firm handling of recent health threats.
“I’m very proud of what the FCT has achieved. When the diphtheria outbreak hit Nigeria, the FCT was the only place where it was crushed from the beginning. That shows the strength of leadership here,” he said.
Mulombo called immunization a “human right for our children.” Launching this campaign during Africa Vaccination Week, he said, is a reminder of both its necessity and possibility.
Though Nigeria has been declared polio-free, he warned that vaccine-derived strains are making a comeback.
“We now have a better tool the novel oral polio vaccine (nOPV) and we must finish the job before the end of this year,” he said.
He saluted health workers who continue to prioritize immunization despite challenges, and applauded FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for backing the effort.
“If Nigeria gets it right, Africa will be free of polio. And when Africa is free, the world will be free,” he concluded.
Dr. Ruqqaya Wamakko, who represented Dr. Babagana Adam of the FCTA, closed the launch with a firm reminder:
“Today, we are here to flag off the April 2025 National Immunization Plus Days a national assignment for the benefit of our women and children, particularly the most vulnerable.”