ASABA/Nigeria: In a decisive move aimed at intensifying efforts to eradicate polio in Delta State, the Commissioner of Information, Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, affirmed the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to deploy its robust information dissemination apparatus. The pledge, made during a meeting with the management team of the Delta State Primary Health Development Agency, underscores the state government’s steadfast support for polio vaccination initiatives.
Dr. Osuoza’s declaration signals a significant boost to ongoing advocacy and sensitization campaigns, crucial components in the fight against poliomyelitis. With the backing of the Ministry of Information, the agency is poised to escalate its efforts to educate Deltans and residents on the importance of polio vaccination and other immunization programs.
Speaking at the conference room of the Ministry, Dr. Osuoza emphasized the critical role of primary healthcare in achieving success in public health endeavors. He stated, “If we do not get it right at the primary healthcare level, then we have not gotten it right.” The Commissioner commended the agency’s existing efforts and pledged full cooperation in amplifying awareness campaigns across the state, particularly at the grassroots level.
“We will cooperate with you 100 per cent in this drive,” Dr. Osuoza affirmed. “We will sensitise Deltans and tell them the importance of polio vaccination and other immunisation levels. We will enlighten our people to counter misconceptions. Above all, we are doing this to actualize the MORE Agenda to benefit all Deltans.”
Promising a comprehensive approach to the awareness campaign, Dr. Osuoza highlighted the utilization of both traditional and modern media platforms. This inclusive strategy aims to ensure that no segment of the population remains uninformed about the critical need for vaccination.
Echoing Dr. Osuoza’s sentiments, Dr. Paul Yinkore, Executive Director of the State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, expressed gratitude for the Ministry’s partnership. Dr. Yinkore emphasized the urgency of immunizing vulnerable populations, particularly children under the age of one, in the battle against polio.
“We have come to seek your support with media activities to reach the target,” Dr. Yinkore stated. “When we come out to vaccinate, the people should readily come out to accept the vaccine because it is good for our people. The sad thing about polio is that it is very destructive.”
The collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Information and the Delta State Primary Health Development Agency underscore a united front in the fight against polio. With concerted advocacy and heightened awareness, Delta State moves closer to achieving its goal of a polio-free society, safeguarding the health and well-being of its citizens.
