Rotary’s Call to Action on World Polio Day: Vaccinate Every Child

As Nigeria observes World Polio Day on October 24, Bukola Olabisi Bakare, the District Governor of Rotary International District 9111, is urging everyone to take polio prevention seriously. She calls on parents, government officials, and community leaders to ensure that every child receives the necessary vaccinations to protect against polio.

Bakare expressed her sadness that children are still at risk of polio despite the availability of vaccines. She stated, “It is heartbreaking that in this day and age, a child can still become paralysed because of polio.” She emphasized the importance of vaccinations, particularly as Nigeria was declared free of wild poliovirus in 2020, a milestone that should not lead to complacency.

She pointed out that while Nigeria has made significant progress, the threat of variant poliovirus still exists. Bakare highlighted the ongoing efforts of Rotary International, which has been working to eradicate polio since 1979, and she praised the collaboration with organizations like the World Health Organization and UNICEF.

Bakare also stressed the need to reach children in rural areas where healthcare access is limited. She urged parents to ignore misinformation and to cooperate with vaccination teams. “Do not allow fear or rumours to put their future at risk,” she said.

To raise awareness, Rotary has organized various events, including a Polio Awareness Train Ride scheduled for October 31. Bakare encouraged corporate organizations and individuals to support the End Polio Now campaign in any way they can, whether through donations or spreading accurate information.

She also acknowledged the hard work of health workers who travel to remote areas to vaccinate children and called on media outlets to help educate the public about the importance of vaccination. Bakare concluded with a hopeful message, envisioning a future where no child suffers from polio, urging everyone to continue the fight against the disease.