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From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
Philanthropist and Rotary International Polio Ambassador to Nigeria, Dr. Emeka Offor has warned against complacency in the fight against polio, stressing that such could be dangerous to the years of achievements against the disease.
He gave the warning at an event organised 2025, organised by Rotary International District 9127 to mark the World Polio Day 2025, with the theme, “End Polio: Every Child, Every Vaccine, Everywhere”.
He advocated a sustained vigilance through a strong routine immunization to prevent a resurgence of polio in Nigeria, even as the country celebrates five years of being polio-free.
He noted that while Nigeria has maintained its polio-free status since 2020, Pakistan and Afghanistan still record cases of the wild poliovirus, making continuous advocacy and immunisation crucial.
He said: “As we mark World Polio Day 2025, I speak to the world with immense gratitude for
how far we have come, and with renewed determination to finish the journey we started together. Through Rotary International, the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), and the dedication of countless Nigerians, we have
transformed what once seemed impossible into a story of real progress and hope.
“Across Africa, and here in Nigeria, the story of polio has changed. Wild poliovirus is gone from our soil, but our mission is not yet complete. The threat of circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus still exists, and that means our vigilance must not waver. The progress we have achieved shows what is possible when partners, governments, communities, and individuals unite for one goal: to protect every child, everywhere.
He assured that the Foundation will not relent in playing its part in the fight, stressing that together with the partners, it will keep supporting vaccination drives in hard-to-reach areas; strengthening cold chain systems to keep vaccines effective; train and equip frontline health workers; build trust through community engagement and education; and strengthen partnership with traditional and religious leaders to reach every home
and every heart.
“But as we celebrate our gains, we must remember that polio anywhere remains a threat to children everywhere. The final steps toward total eradication require even greater commitment. Governments must maintain strong surveillance, expand routine immunization, and support the frontline workers who make every campaign possible.
“At Emeka Offor Foundation, we remain steadfast. In 2025 and beyond, we are working with Rotary International and our GPEI partners to integrate polio vaccines with other essential health services; support digital tracking and rapid response systems; strengthen Nigeria’s routine immunization network; ensure that no child, no matter where they live is left behind.”
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He commended Rotary Leaders, particularly Princess Joy Okoro, District Governor of Rotary International District 9127, for her consistent philanthropy in health and education, describing Rotary International as a pillar of humanitarian vision in Nigeria.
He urged parents to ensure children are vaccinated from birth to age five to safeguard the nation’s polio-free record.
Dr. Khadijat Yusuf, District Polio Chair, District 9127, said that although wild poliovirus has been eradicated from Nigeria, detections of vaccine-derived strains in some areas show the need for ongoing routine immunisation and public sensitisation
Also speaking, Fred Odika, President of Presidents, Rotary Club FCT and Rotary Club of Abuja Metro, said Rotary leaders carried out sensitisation campaigns across six area councils in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to promote immunisation and awareness. The outreach, he added, included symbolic immunisations at primary health centres to encourage parents to keep their children protected.
Chris Okey Ezike, retired Assistant Inspector-General of Police and Chief of Staff to the Sir Emeka Offor Foundation, stated that the fight against polio requires sustained funding, collaboration, and community trust, areas where the Sir Emeka Offor Foundation has remained at the forefront.
He added that the Foundation recently received special commendation from the Federal Government for its significant investments in polio eradication
He noted that the foundation’s activities stand on a tripod of philanthropy, health, education, and empowerment, which complement national and global efforts toward sustainable development.
“Sir Emeka Offor’s sustained philanthropy and leadership remain central to this shared vision of a world free from polio,” he said.
With Nigeria maintaining its polio-free status, partners under the GPEI, including Rotary International, WHO, UNICEF, and the Sir Emeka Offor Foundation, continue to work together toward global eradication.
