Kano targets polio eradication, maternal mortality reduction by June 2025

Abba Yusuf, governor of Kano state, says his administration will eradicate polio and significantly reduce maternal mortality by June 2025.

The governor spoke during the opening opened a training for health personnel, tradional leaders, and council chairmen of the 44 LGA of the state.

Yusuf, who was represented by Aminu Gwarzo, his deputy, said addressing these critical health challenges remains a priority for his administration.

“This administration is committed to reducing high rate of maternal mortality and complete eradication of polio by June this year,” he said.

He said the participation of the traditional institution, the state house of assembly council chairmen, and other government functionaries is an indication that the government is determined to end polio and maternal mortality in Kano state.

He also called on health personnel, traditional leaders, and local government officials to take the immunisation efforts in their areas seriously.

The governor warned that said health workers who are not committed to their duties will be replaced.

“Any health worker who is not committed, will be replaced without delay with more serious and committed persons,” he said.

Speaking earlier, Rahma Muhammad an official of the United Nations Children Funds (UNICEF), said there had been a steady increase in the number of polio cases in the state between 2022 and 2025.

“Children of Kano state are still falling prey to polio virus, and many too are yet to receive any routine vaccines,” she said.

“Vaccines are one of the most effective and cost-saving public interventions in history. Yet nearly 250,000 children in Kano state are zero dosed (yet to collect vaccine).”