Muhammad Jamil Abubakar
The recent April round of the Polio Vaccination Campaign in Gombe State, which coincided with the National Immunization Plus Days, has recorded notable success despite initial setbacks in areas like Garko Ward in Akko Local Government Area.
The campaign, organized collaboration between the Gombe State Government and UNICEF, is part of ongoing efforts to eradicate polio and reach every child, even in the most difficult-to-access communities.
According to the Acting Primary Health Care Coordinator of Akko Local Government, Muhammad Umar Lawanti, the campaign initially faced resistance in Garko Ward, one of the most populous areas in the state with over 70 households refusing the vaccine in the first two days.
Some residents cited dissatisfaction with government support in areas such as mosquito net distribution and economic palliatives, questioning the prioritization of vaccines over basic needs.
However, this tide began to turn following the intervention of key partners, the Fathers Response Rapid Team, a grassroots initiative set up by the Gombe State Government, in collaboration with traditional institutions and UNICEF, took proactive steps to engage with the communities.
Through door-to-door advocacy, community dialogues, and targeted messaging about the dangers of Polio which remains incurable the number of noncompliant households dropped significantly to just 10.
Community leaders and traditional rulers have played a pivotal role in reversing vaccine hesitancy, Umar Adamu, Secretary of the Akko Emirates Council and the Fathers Response Rapid Team, explained that the council quickly deploys delegations to communities with high resistance, fostering enlightenment and encouraging compliance through trusted local voices.
Health workers, too, have shown exceptional commitment. Motivated by the shared goal of a polio-free Gombe, vaccination teams have embraced inclusive strategies, such as incorporating women, local influencers, and grassroots mobilizers into their teams. Initiatives like “Mama 2 Mama” and the engagement of Chief Agents have proven instrumental in penetrating resistant households.
The Deputy Chairman of Akko Local Government Council, Habibu Hassan, acknowledged the challenges but highlighted the progress.
“We now have 20 teams working across the vast terrain of Akko, especially to reach hard-to-reach and migrant communities in Garko,” he said.
“Migration due to insecurity in neighboring states has increased the population here, but we are adjusting our strategies.”
He also praised UNICEF’s unwavering support in logistics, training, and public education, urging parents to continue supporting the campaign.
“This is about the future of our children. We cannot relent,” he emphasized.
Despite initial challenges, the April polio campaign in Akko underscores the power of collaboration, community trust, and consistent engagement.
With traditional leaders, health workers, and global partners like UNICEF working hand-in-hand, Gombe State is making meaningful strides toward a polio-free future.