Kogi state government says it will intensify its fight in ensuring that the state remains polio free.
Capt Idris Wada the Kogi State Governor stated this at the flag off of March 2014 National Immunization Plus Days, held at Okpo in Olamaboro LGA of Kogi State.
Capt Idris Wada described the immunization exercise as a critical aspect of government efforts aimed at reducing communicable diseases.
Represented by his Deputy, Yomi Awoniyi, expressed happiness that the state still remains polio free. He assured of government’s support that will put smiles on the faces of vulnerable groups such as youths and women in the society as well as sustaining its free rural medical program.
The Governor said efforts will be made to increase access to essential drugs, safe water and improve sanitation across the state.
Wada described the primary role of government as geared towards protecting lives and properties, said the polio vaccines is safe and not in doubt.
The governor commended the council chairmen in the state and other relevant agencies for their fight in eliminating polio, assured that government will not shirk in its responsibilities of providing good health for the people.
Also speaking,the wife of the state governor, Hajia Halimat Wada, said her NGO, KOWEN will continue to assist in the provision of vaccines, describing the vaccine as potent,effective and free. She called on mothers to present their children from age 0- 5 years for immunization.
Their were good will messages from donor agencies,and the relevant ministry who all pledged their commitment to the eradication of polio.
Earlier in his remarks, Dr Idris Omede, commissioner for health, said the state has met the international requirement of routine immunization.
The commissioner attributed the polio free status of the state since 2009 as been made possible by the government. He particularly commended the Wada administration in polio eradication.
In his welcome remarks, Faruk Adejoh said the ongoing renovation of Okpo General Hospital is a testimony to government’s concern for the health of the people. He commended the state government for its interest in eradicating polio assured of his council’s readiness to partner the state government in the well being of the people.
Highlight of the program was the administering of vaccines to children from the area by Capt Idris Wada.
