A high-level delegation from the Global Polio Eradication Initiative visited Nigeria to address the type 2 variant poliovirus. They met with government officials to assess progress and challenges in polio eradication efforts. Key discussions included the importance of commitment from all stakeholders and enhancing routine immunization to prevent further virus spread. No new cases have been reported in 2025, highlighting the need for continued efforts.
A high-level delegation from the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) visited Nigeria on February 27-28, 2025, to address the urgent need to combat the transmission of the type 2 variant poliovirus. During their visit to Abuja, the delegation convened with government representatives and traditional leaders to renew commitments and discuss ongoing challenges impeding polio eradication efforts in the nation.
The Polio Oversight Board (POB), which oversees GPEI’s strategic decisions, held discussions focused on evaluating Nigeria’s progress in eradicating polio, tackling the issues of insecurity and vaccine misinformation, and enhancing support at both domestic and international levels. Dr. Chris Elias, Chair of the POB, led the delegation in talks with Nigerian officials, stressing the importance of national leadership in combating the spread of poliovirus.
The delegation included prominent figures such as Dr. Chikwe Ihekweazu of WHO, Mr. Gilles Fagninou from UNICEF, and representatives from Rotary International and Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance. They met with Nigeria’s Coordinating Minister of Health, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, who reiterated the commitment to polio eradication and called for increased national accountability and dedication to the cause.
In their discussions, the delegation also interacted with leaders from the National Primary Health Care Development Agency to assess the current situation regarding poliovirus transmission in Nigeria. Notably, the 42nd Expert Review Committee (ERC) presented recommendations aimed at improving immunization strategies, elevating vaccine outreach effectiveness, enhancing accountability, and tackling misinformation about vaccines.
Despite significant efforts, poliovirus transmission rates have remained steady in 2023-2024, with 94 confirmed cases across 15 states. However, no new type 2 variant poliovirus cases have been reported in Nigeria in 2025. The POB delegation underscored the critical need for unified commitment from all stakeholders to enhance routine immunization systems and prevent further spread of the poliovirus.
The GPEI emphasized that making substantial progress requires cohesive efforts among state and federal entities. Nigerian leaders have reiterated their dedication to strengthening both polio response initiatives and routine immunization programs to safeguard all children against polio.
The high-level delegation from the GPEI has reinforced the urgent need for renewed commitments to combat the type 2 variant poliovirus in Nigeria. Through discussions with government and health leaders, the importance of unified efforts, strong routine immunization systems, and addressing challenges like vaccine misinformation was highlighted. Achieving polio eradication in Nigeria remains critical for public health within the country and the broader region.
Original Source: www.afro.who.int
