In a renewed push to eradicate polio, Michael McGovern, Chair of the Rotary International Polio Plus Committee, has called on the Nigerian government to prioritize public health surveillance as a critical tool in eliminating vaccine-derived poliovirus.
Rotary International, a key player in the global fight against polio, currently allocates $150 million annually to support eradication efforts in Nigeria, underscoring its commitment to safeguarding children’s health.
The Need for Sustained Immunization Efforts
During his visit to Nigeria, McGovern emphasized the urgent need for continuous immunization campaigns, especially in light of the country’s ongoing challenges with vaccine-derived poliovirus. While Nigeria was officially declared free of wild poliovirus by the World Health Organization (WHO) in 2020, the emergence of vaccine-derived cases highlights the necessity of maintaining robust immunization programs.
Speaking at the Masaka Primary Health Center in Nasarawa State, McGovern participated in a symbolic polio immunization exercise alongside Carol Pandak, Director of the Polio Plus Program at Rotary International, and other key officials. He stressed the importance of community vigilance in disease surveillance, urging parents and health authorities to act swiftly when a child shows signs of illness.
“Laboratories, parents, and local health authorities must remain vigilant. If a child shows signs of illness, parents should take them to health facilities to find out what is going on,” he advised.
Strengthening Routine Immunization to Prevent Disease Resurgence
McGovern underscored the significance of comprehensive routine immunization programs in preventing not only polio but also other vaccine-preventable diseases.
“The most responsible thing is for everyone to support all routine immunizations—for measles, polio, and many other diseases. Immunization strengthens the immune system and protects children from multiple illnesses, not just polio,” he stated.
He also emphasized the importance of prioritizing child health, saying, “The biggest impression that everyone has to have here is to see the beautiful children and recognize the importance of their health. Ensuring they receive necessary immunizations is vital for them to live healthy lives.”
Rotary’s Ongoing Investment in Polio Eradication
Reaffirming Rotary International’s unwavering commitment, McGovern highlighted the organization’s substantial financial and strategic contributions to the global polio eradication effort.
“Rotary currently spends $150 million annually on the polio eradication effort. Over the years, we have invested nearly $3 billion. It’s a lot of money, but we are happy to do it because we see the benefit—20 million children who have not been disabled,” he noted.
Acknowledging Nigeria’s role in the global immunization landscape, McGovern stressed that every country, including developed nations, has room for improvement.
“Nigeria is not unlike the rest of the world. I live in the United States, and we could be doing more. Every country can do more than it is doing now,” he remarked.
Collaboration with Global Partners and Local Communities
McGovern praised the role of international partners such as WHO, the United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in the global effort to eradicate polio. However, he stressed that the most significant impact comes from local communities ensuring children receive vaccinations.
“In the end, it’s the local communities that make the difference, ensuring children are immunized and have a healthy future,” he said.
He also commended the dedication of frontline health workers who navigate challenging environments to deliver life-saving vaccines across Nigeria.
“We particularly want to acknowledge the frontline workers who go out into the heat, into so many places, and the mothers who make sure their children are immunized. It’s life-saving. It makes a difference,” he added.
Beyond Polio: Future Health Initiatives
Looking ahead, McGovern affirmed that while polio eradication remains a top priority, Rotary International is also committed to broader child and maternal health initiatives.
“The next big project will be determined by Rotarians worldwide. We don’t prescribe top-down solutions; we listen to the needs of local communities,” he explained.
Echoing McGovern’s sentiments, Carol Pandak urged Nigerian communities to prioritize vaccinations, emphasizing the vital role parents play in disease prevention.
“I’ve been very impressed with the mothers, children, and the dedication of local health workers. The most important thing parents can do is immunize their children—not just against polio but against all vaccine-preventable diseases,” she stated.
As Nigeria continues its fight against polio, sustained surveillance, routine immunization, and community engagement remain essential to securing a healthier future for all children.
