Yobe Flags Off March 2026 Immunisation Campaign to Protect 1.6M Children

Yobe State Primary Healthcare Board (YSPHCB) has launched the March 2026 round of the Sub-National Immunisation Plus Days (SNIPDs) campaign, targeting over 1.6 million children across the state.

The ceremony was held at the Nayi Nawa District Head’s Palace in Damaturu.

At the event, the executive secretary of the board, Dr Babagana Kundi Machina, who was represented by the director of Immunisation and Disease Control, Dr Bamai Ali, described the campaign as a crucial step in safeguarding Yobe’s children’s future.

He said the initiative reflects the collective resolve of the government and its partners to protect children from the devastating effects of poliovirus and other vaccine-preventable diseases.

Dr Kundi said the March 2026 SNIPDs campaign demonstrated the state’s unwavering commitment to polio eradication, with a target to vaccinate over 1.6 million children using the novel Oral Polio Vaccine Type 2 (nOPV2) in the state’s 17 local government areas.

He further highlighted that the success of the campaign will be driven by innovative strategies, including the deployment of high-performing vaccination teams across all wards, engagement of independent monitors and state supervisors, and robust community mobilisation efforts led by Civil Society Organizations (CSOs).

The Executive Secretary reiterated Governor Buni-led administration remains committed to prioritising healthcare delivery and improving the well-being of the people of the state.

He therefore expressed appreciation to development partners and collaborating agencies, including the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), World Health Organisation (WHO), UNICEF, the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, AFENET, SOLINA, CGPP, HAVEN TRUST, CHIGARI, the Sultan Foundation, and others, for their continuous support.

Goodwill messages were delivered by key development partners, including the WHO State Coordinator, Dr Hamisu Alhassan Dama; the UNICEF representative, Dr Earnest Okoli; the Gates Foundation State Consultant, Dr Usman Matazu; and representatives of CGPP, who reaffirmed their commitment to supporting the campaign’s success.

In a vote of thanks delivered by the District Head of Bula Bulim, Alhaji Ajiya Kalli Murfama, expressed appreciation to all stakeholders for their contributions toward the success of the programme.