Polio Outbreak Response Campaign Launches in Lagos State
The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, is preparing to launch a statewide Polio Outbreak Response Campaign. This initiative comes after the detection of an orphan circulating Variant Poliovirus Type 2 (cVPV2) in Makoko, within the Lagos Mainland Local Government Area. The campaign aims to address the growing concern over potential virus transmission and protect children from the risk of paralysis.
This effort is being carried out in collaboration with several key organizations, including the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, the World Health Organisation (WHO), the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), and other development partners. These partnerships are crucial in ensuring a coordinated and effective response to the outbreak.
According to a recent statement, the outbreak response will begin on Saturday, November 8, 2025. This initiative is part of broader national and state efforts to interrupt the spread of the virus and safeguard public health. The campaign is expected to be a critical step in preventing further cases and reinforcing community immunity.
Dr. Ibrahim Mustafa, the Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Primary Health Care Board, highlighted that routine environmental surveillance had identified the orphan cVPV2 strain in samples collected from Makoko. This discovery indicates possible ongoing transmission and underscores the need for immediate action.
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The riverine community of Makoko, known for its dense population, has become a focal point for this response. Dr. Mustafa emphasized the urgency of implementing a rapid and comprehensive strategy to strengthen population immunity and curb the spread of the virus.
To achieve this, the Lagos State Government plans to conduct two intensive rounds of house-to-house vaccination campaigns across all 20 Local Government Areas and 37 Local Council Development Areas of the state. This approach ensures that every child under five years of age, regardless of their previous vaccination status, is reached.
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Each child will receive two drops of the novel Oral Polio Vaccine (OPV), which is safe, effective, and approved by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control and the World Health Organisation. This vaccine is a critical tool in the fight against polio and represents a significant advancement in public health strategies.
Dr. Mustafa also called on parents, caregivers, and community leaders to support the vaccination teams. “The detection of this virus is a reminder that polio remains a threat until it is completely eradicated. We therefore urge all parents, caregivers, and community leaders to open their doors to health workers and cooperate fully with the vaccination teams,” he said.
Progress in Nigeria’s Polio Eradication Efforts
Recent data highlights some progress in Nigeria’s fight against polio. In late October, reports indicated a 44 per cent drop in circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVDPV2) cases in 2025. This decline was revealed in epidemiological data presented by the National Economic Council Ad-hoc Committee on Polio Eradication, led by Gombe State Governor, Inuwa Yahaya, at the 153rd NEC meeting chaired by Vice President Kashim Shettima in Abuja.
The data showed that confirmed cases fell from 109 in 2024 to 61 in 2025. Despite this improvement, the Council warned of the potential for new outbreaks in parts of the North-West. This highlights the importance of sustained efforts to maintain progress and prevent resurgence.
The ongoing Polio Outbreak Response Campaign in Lagos State is a vital component of these efforts. By focusing on high-risk areas and ensuring widespread vaccination coverage, the government is taking proactive steps to protect children and communities from the devastating effects of polio.
As the campaign begins, the collaboration between local and international health organizations will be essential in achieving long-term success. Continued vigilance, public awareness, and community engagement are key to eradicating polio and ensuring a healthier future for all.