Kwara, UNICEF Identify High-Risk Areas for Polio Outbreak

Kwara State, in partnership with UNICEF, has identified four local government areas—Kaiama, Ifelodun, Moro, and Ilorin East—as high-risk for polio after the state reported two new cases, contributing to a total of nine cases recorded across Nigeria in 2026. The Kwara State Primary Health Care Development Agency (KWSPHCDA) will collaborate with UNICEF to conduct an immunization exercise from March 29 to April 1, 2026.

Dr. Modup Shittu, the state's polio immunization mobilization officer, emphasized that poor hygiene and insecurity are significant factors contributing to the outbreak in these high-risk areas.

She urged parents and guardians to ensure their children, particularly those aged 0-5 years, are immunized during this four-day exercise. Dr.

Usman Danlami, a UNICEF consultant, warned that the polio threat remains critical in Nigeria, particularly in Kwara, which serves as a transit point for northern states.