The Kano State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening immunization coverage as it officially commenced activities for the 2026 Africa Vaccination Week (AVW), with a focus on reaching children who have not received routine vaccines.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf, made this known on Tuesday during a press briefing at the Emergency Operations Centre (EOC) Conference Room in Kano.
The campaign, led by the World Health Organization Regional Office for Africa, is themed “For every generation, vaccines work,” highlighting the life-long protection vaccines offer across all age groups.
Dr. Yusuf said Kano is not only participating in the continental exercise but taking a leading role through strategic planning and strong community engagement aimed at improving health outcomes.
He noted that the state will prioritize the identification and vaccination of “zero-dose” children those aged 0 to 23 months who have not received any routine immunization through intensified outreach and catch-up campaigns.
As part of this year’s activities, the government has introduced an integrated health service delivery approach across health facilities. These services include deworming, antenatal care, family planning, nutrition screening, diarrhea and malaria treatment, HIV counseling, and breastfeeding support.
According to the Commissioner, a major highlight of the week is the flag-off rally and health walk held on April 28, designed to mobilize public participation and raise awareness on the importance of vaccination.
He disclosed that traditional and religious leaders, alongside polio survivors, were actively involved in the event to strengthen advocacy and community trust, describing their participation as critical to the success of the campaign.
Dr. Yusuf also announced the deployment of a real-time data management reporting tool across all 44 local government areas to ensure transparency and accountability in tracking immunization progress.
The initiative is supported by global health partners including Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, the World Health Organization, and the United Nations Children’s Fund UNICEF.