Abuja: Hundreds of children across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have received life-saving polio vaccines, thanks to an initiative by the Rotary Club, District 9127, RC Abuja, Maitama. Speaking at a medical outreach event in Abaji, Abuja, the District Governor of 9127, Dr. Joy Okoro, emphasized that these efforts aim to eradicate polio in Nigeria.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event was part of the activities to commemorate the 2025 International Polio Day. Dr. Okoro, who led the outreach in the Abaji Area Council, explained that the vaccination exercise took place across six area councils in the FCT, with five other district governors overseeing activities in the remaining regions. The initiative was designed to ensure that no child under the age of five is left unvaccinated against this crippling disease.
Dr. Okoro elaborated that the exercise is part of Rotary's mission to improve local communities through service projects. She stated, "We are reaching more than 1,000 children for this exercise. As you can see, we have vaccinated a lot of babies here today, even the newborns, like those just two days old." She urged parents to continue bringing their children to health facilities for free vaccinations, funded by Rotary and its partners.
In addition to the vaccination drive, Dr. Okoro highlighted that the Rotary Club took polio sensitization efforts to mosques and churches, ensuring widespread awareness. Dr. Saleh Ashafa, Director of Primary Health Care for Abaji Area Council, praised the Rotary Club's initiative, noting that community partnerships have been vital in maintaining Nigeria's polio-free status.
Dr. Ashafa emphasized the importance of routine immunization as a key component of primary health care services. He acknowledged challenges such as poor road networks and maintenance issues, which hinder access to healthcare in remote areas, but assured that efforts are ongoing to ensure all children receive necessary vaccinations.
Parents expressed gratitude for the initiative, with beneficiaries like Mrs. Safia Zakaria, a nursing mother, appreciating the peace of mind the vaccinations provide. She also thanked the organizers for the souvenirs given to participants.