Polio: Kano Man Narrates How UNICEF and Deputy Governor Spurred Him to Immunise His Child

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Father Changes Mind After Hearing Officials Speak

Dan Jumai Ubale, from Bunkure Local Government Area in Kano , decided to immunise his two-year-old daughter after attending a polio campaign event.

He was moved by speeches given by the Deputy Governor , Comrade Aminu Abdulsalam , and the UNICEF Chief in Kano , Mr. Rahama Rihood Mohammed Farah .

He later returned with his daughter, Hafsat Musbahu , for immediate vaccination. He was joined by his wife, Hajiya Sahura Balarabe .


“I Thought the Vaccine Was Harmful”

Ubale admitted that he once believed the polio vaccine was dangerous .

“I thought it was a plan by Western countries to reduce Africa’s population.”

But after listening to the officials speak, he said his views completely changed.

“Now I know the vaccine protects children. I don’t want my daughter to get sick or be paralysed.”

He added:

“I rushed back home because I now understand how important the vaccine is.”


Deputy Governor Warns Against Misconceptions

The Deputy Governor, who leads the State Taskforce on Immunisation and Primary Healthcare , spoke out against false beliefs about vaccines.

“Some people reject vaccines because they think they come from the West. But what about medicines like paracetamol? They also come from abroad.”

He said it was time to stop doubting and start protecting children.

He explained that Bunkure was chosen for the campaign because it was one of three LGAs in Kano where polio cases were found this year .

“We are not taking this lightly. We must reach every child.”

Local leaders were urged to support the campaign and ensure full participation.


UNICEF Commends Kano’s Efforts

Mr. Rahama Rihood Mohammed Farah , UNICEF Chief in Kano, encouraged residents to take part in the drive.

“If we can stop polio in Kano, we can stop it everywhere.”

He thanked the Kano state government and local authorities for their commitment.

UNICEF pledged continued support in funding, logistics, and supervision.


Health Officials Urge Parents to Participate

Dr. Abubakar Labaran Yusuf , the Kano Commissioner of Health , was represented at the event by Pharm. Aminu Bashir .

He reminded parents that this was the second round of polio immunisation in 2025 .

“Bunkure is among 13 LGAs in Nigeria where polio has been recorded this year.”

Parents were asked to make sure their children received the vaccine.

The National Immunisation Plus Days (NIPDs) campaign ran from 14 to 17 June 2025 across all 44 LGAs in Kano State.


Call to Action: Share Your Thoughts!

Have you ever doubted the safety of vaccines? What helped change your mind?

💬 Leave a comment below and join the conversation on how awareness campaigns can help fight misinformation.

📢 Don’t forget to share this story to help others understand the importance of immunisation.

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