Borno polio cases drop as UNICEF targets zero infections

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The United Nations Children’s Fund has said circulating variant poliovirus cases in Borno State dropped from eight in 2025 to three in 2026, as efforts continue to eliminate the virus from the state.

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The UNICEF Chief of Maiduguri Field Office, Francis Butichi, disclosed this on Saturday during a football match organised for polio survivors in Maiduguri as part of activities marking the 2026 World Polio Day.

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He said, “Borno State has made encouraging progress in the fight against polio, reducing reported circulating variant polio virus (cVPV) cases from eight in 2025 to three in 2026.”

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Butichi added, “What this means is that in 2025, we had eight cases. Through the works of government, and partners, we have dropped that to three cases in 2026, which is a good indicator that all of us are working.”

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He said the achievement reflected the dedication of the government, health workers, community leaders, partners, volunteers and caregivers across the state.

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“But while we celebrate this progress, the fight is not over. Three cases are still one too many and our goal remains clear: zero polio cases in Borno State,” he emphasised.

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Butichi said the football match organised for polio survivors symbolised the collective commitment of stakeholders to a polio-free future in the state.

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“Today is more than just a football match. It symbolises our collective commitment to a polio-free future and demonstrates the unity of communities, government, partners, caregivers and survivors in the fight against polio,” he said.

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He added, “Today also reminds us of the importance of strengthening primary healthcare services so that every child, regardless of location, has access to vaccination and other essential health services.”

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“As we enjoyed this match, let us remember that our greatest victory will be achieved when no child in Borno suffers from polio virus again,” he added.

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He further said the upcoming polio campaign in October and November presented a critical opportunity to protect every child and close the remaining immunity gaps.

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“As we approach World Polio Day 2026 on 24 October, I call on government, partners, community leaders, parents, and caregivers to renew their commitment to immunisation and child health,” Butichi said.

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The UNICEF chief also appreciated the efforts of the state government, media and other stakeholders in protecting the health and future of children.

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“On behalf of UNICEF, I thank the Borno State Government, our partners, community leaders, members of the polio survivors group, the media and all stakeholders for their continued dedication to protecting the health and future of children,” he stated.

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