No Child Left Behind: Anambra Mobilises Statewide Immunisation Campaign to Combat Polio

 

Anambra State has kicked off the first round of the 2025 National Immunisation Plus Days (NIPDs), a vigorous public health campaign targeting the eradication of polio and strengthening routine immunisation for children under five years old. The statewide initiative, which runs from May 3rd to May 6th, is being implemented by the Anambra State Primary Healthcare Development Agency (ASPHCDA) in collaboration with the State Ministry of Health (SMOH) and a host of development partners.

This comprehensive campaign has mobilised health personnel across the state to ensure every eligible child is vaccinated. Health teams are operating from both fixed and temporary posts while also conducting door-to-door visits to reach even the most remote and underserved areas. Community spaces such as markets, schools, churches, mosques, village squares, and motor parks have been transformed into immunisation points to boost accessibility and coverage.

A significant milestone in the campaign was marked by an official flag-off ceremony at the Orumba South Local Government Area Secretariat Complex in Umueze. The event witnessed an impressive turnout of community stakeholders, including traditional rulers, women's organisations, local government executives, and various healthcare partners, all unified by a common goal: safeguarding the future of Anambra’s children.

Executive Secretary of ASPHCDA, Pharm. Chisom Uchem, passionately addressed the gathering, describing the NIPDs campaign as a crucial intervention in protecting children from preventable diseases. She applauded the dedication of healthcare workers and community mobilisers who have been trained and equipped for the demanding task ahead.

“Our health workers are not just administering vaccines; they are preserving lives and futures,” Uchem stated, urging mothers and caregivers to bring their children forward for vaccination. She also highlighted the necessity of reaching children in difficult terrains and remote settlements, reaffirming the agency’s commitment to leaving no child behind.

The community-oriented approach was further strengthened by a call to action directed at traditional and religious leaders. Uchem appealed for their involvement in encouraging participation and ensuring that accurate information reaches all corners of the state. She acknowledged the pivotal role these figures play in influencing public perception and rallying local support.

Representing the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), Mr. Emeka Ugwu outlined the broader vision of the NIPDs initiative. He emphasised that the campaign aims not only to boost immunisation rates but also to foster community resilience and reduce the burden of vaccine-preventable diseases such as polio. Ugwu reiterated the national goal of achieving herd immunity through consistent and widespread immunisation efforts.

Local leadership echoed these sentiments with strong endorsements from Hon. Shadrach Azubuike, Mayor of Orumba South LGA, and his deputy, Mrs. Ngozi Obidike. Both officials stressed the importance of maintaining an updated immunisation calendar for every child and called for full compliance across communities during the four-day campaign. Their speeches reflected a deep understanding of how public health initiatives depend on grassroots support to succeed.

Traditional institutions also played a prominent role in the campaign’s launch. His Royal Majesty, Igwe Livnus Obinna Ezenwa of Umuoma Ancient Kingdom, lent his royal voice to the movement, expressing deep appreciation for the state’s healthcare agencies and their partners. He pledged the full backing of traditional authorities to facilitate vaccination efforts within their domains. “Our thrones must not only represent culture but also serve as pillars of progress and health for our people,” Igwe Ezenwa declared.

This year’s NIPDs coincides with the 2025 African Vaccination Week, amplifying the campaign’s message and aligning with continental efforts to promote vaccine awareness. Pharm. Uchem highlighted the timeliness of this alignment, noting that it presents a unique opportunity to double advocacy and action in favour of child health.

She concluded her remarks with a strong reminder that the campaign does not end with a single round of vaccines. “This is just the beginning. Completing the full immunisation schedule is what truly protects our children. Partial immunisation is not enough,” she warned.

The mobilisation and high turnout so far reflect growing public awareness of the benefits of immunisation and the collaborative energy among health authorities, civil society, and traditional leadership. The campaign’s inclusive strategy, which combines technical precision with cultural sensitivity, positions Anambra as a leading example in Nigeria’s fight against polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases.

As health teams continue their outreach across cities and rural communities alike, the message is clear: the future of Anambra's children is a shared responsibility, and through sustained collaboration, the goal of a polio-free state is within reach.