Sultan Foundation Calls for Enhanced Polio Awareness in Yobe

The Sultan Foundation for Peace and Development has called on Muslim and Christian religious leaders in Yobe State to intensify efforts in promoting polio immunisation following reports of variant poliovirus circulation in three local government areas. This appeal was made during a high-level engagement in Damaturu, which included various religious leaders.

The Emir of Bade, Abubakar Umar Sulaiman, urged traditional rulers and clerics to leverage their influence to counter vaccine misinformation and encourage parents to vaccinate their children. He highlighted the significant role of traditional rulers in previous vaccination campaigns, which helped reduce polio cases.

The emir dismissed claims linking vaccines to infertility as harmful propaganda. Malam Aminu Dan-Mallam, the National Programme Adviser of the Sultan Foundation, noted the need for intensified community sensitisation.

Dr Babagana Kundi Machina, Executive Secretary of the Yobe State Primary Healthcare Management Board, represented by Dr Umar Chiroma, called for stronger community participation in vaccination efforts.