Parents, Guardians Applaud Sustained Immunization Exercise in Adamawa
From Umar Dankano, Yola
Parents and guardians in Yola South Local Government Area of Adamawa State have expressed satisfaction with the ongoing National Immunization Plus Days (NIPDs) conducted by the Adamawa State Primary Health Care Development Agency (ADSPHCDA) with support from development partners.
An on-the-spot assessment of the exercise by journalists on Monday revealed renewed enthusiasm among parents and guardians, many of whom expressed joy and appreciation for the provision of free healthcare services, particularly for children.
Some parents described the immunization initiative as a “life-saving proactive move,” noting that the government has shown genuine commitment to the health and well-being of the people. They also pledged full cooperation with healthcare workers and caregivers to ensure a smooth and successful exercise across communities.
A parent and resident of Dendo community, Mr. Bitrus Kudi, described the immunization campaign as an essential public health intervention that should never be taken for granted, stressing that only ignorance could lead to its rejection.
Kudi noted that the presence of health workers, community mobilizers, and the media demonstrates the efficiency and safety of vaccines. He emphasized that children represent the future of society and must be protected to enable them to contribute meaningfully in years to come.
Commending the state government and its partners, Kudi attributed the growing public acceptance of immunization to the massive awareness campaigns that have helped dispel long-held myths and misconceptions.
Another resident, Mr. Bayero Haruna, described the ongoing exercise as a gateway to healthy child growth, stressing that immunization keeps children free from preventable diseases.
Haruna expressed confidence that vaccinated children experience fewer cases of illness and urged parents and guardians to prioritize immunization due to its proven efficacy and health benefits. He also commended health workers for their dedication and diligence in ensuring that every eligible child is reached during the campaign.
Speaking during the exercise, healthcare provider Joshua Mataboyo explained that the current round focuses on administering the Novel Oral Polio Vaccine (nOPV), designed to protect children against poliomyelitis.
Mataboyo said the campaign, which commenced on December 9, 2025, is part of national and sub-national efforts to reduce the circulation of poliovirus in Nigeria and across the African region. He stressed that the significance of the exercise cannot be overstated.
“Polio remains a public health concern despite years of progress,” he said. “The nOPV is designed to protect children from poliovirus infection, strengthen population immunity, and prevent future outbreaks. The vaccination targets eligible children across households and public spaces to ensure no child is missed. So far, there has been nearly 100 percent acceptance due to effective information dissemination and community mobilization.”
Commenting on minor challenges experienced during the campaign, Mataboyo noted that they were minimal and mainly related to expectations from parents familiar with previous immunization drives.
He explained that earlier campaigns, such as the DOPV exercise, included incentives like sweets and food items distributed at markets, streets, and water points to encourage participation. Some parents, he said, had inquired whether similar incentives would be offered during the current house-to-house vaccination.
According to reports from Yola, the immunization campaign, implemented by the Adamawa State Government with support from UNICEF and other development partners, is receiving widespread acceptance, reflecting growing public confidence in both routine and supplemental immunization programs.
