Lagos Mobilizes Against Polio Threat in Densely Populated Areas
The Lagos State Government has announced an immediate and comprehensive Polio Outbreak Response (OBR) campaign across the entire state. This decisive action comes after health officials confirmed the detection of a concerning circulating Variant Poliovirus Type 2 (cVPV2) in environmental samples from the Makoko community, a densely populated riverine area on the Lagos Mainland.
Statewide Vaccination Campaign Details
In a coordinated effort with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the World Health Organization (WHO), and UNICEF, the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board (LSPHCB) will launch the emergency initiative on Saturday, November 8, 2025. The campaign is designed as a house-to-house operation that will cover all 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas in Lagos.
The Permanent Secretary of the LSPHCB, Dr. Ibrahim Akinwunmi Mustafa, explained that the virus was identified through the state's routine environmental surveillance system. He emphasized that the discovery of this 'orphan' strain signals that the virus is actively circulating and poses a real threat of paralysis to children. The primary goal is to interrupt this transmission chain swiftly.
During the campaign, every child under the age of five will be administered two drops of the novel Oral Polio Vaccine (nOPV2). Health authorities have assured the public that this specific vaccine has been rigorously tested and certified as both safe and effective by both NAFDAC and the WHO.
Community Engagement and Safety Assurances
Ahead of the rollout, the state government has proactively engaged a wide range of community stakeholders to build trust and ensure high participation. This includes meetings with Local Government Chairmen, traditional rulers, religious leaders, market associations, and health workers’ unions.
Dr. Mustafa strongly reassured all residents, stating, "Our goal is to ensure that every eligible child in Lagos receives the polio vaccine and remains protected from paralysis. The detection of this virus is a reminder that polio remains a threat until it is completely eradicated." He explicitly confirmed that the vaccine is free, safe, and subject to strict quality control.
To guarantee a smooth operation, the state has also reinforced its surveillance systems, vaccine logistics, and risk communication structures. All health workers involved in the campaign have received specialized training in vaccine administration, cold-chain management, and monitoring for any adverse events.
The Lagos State Government is now making a final appeal to all parents, guardians, and community leaders to fully cooperate with the visiting vaccination teams. The success of this critical public health effort depends on community support to safeguard every child and keep Lagos polio-free for future generations.
