UNICEF Reports Polio Cases in Borno Drop to Three in 2026

In Borno State, cases of circulating variant poliovirus (cVPV) have decreased from eight in 2025 to three in 2026, as reported by Francis Butichi, the Chief of the UNICEF Maiduguri Field Office. This update was shared during a football match for polio survivors on Saturday, celebrating World Polio Day 2026.

Butichi acknowledged that the reduction was a result of combined efforts from the government and its partners, but he stressed that the presence of three remaining cases indicates that the fight against polio is not over. He reiterated the goal of achieving zero polio cases in the state.

The football match symbolized the commitment of various stakeholders, including the government, communities, partners, caregivers, and polio survivors, towards a polio-free future. Butichi called for strengthened primary healthcare services and highlighted upcoming polio campaigns in October and November as critical opportunities to protect children and close immunity gaps.

He urged all stakeholders to renew their commitment to immunization and child health as World Polio Day approaches on October 24.