The United Nations Children’s Fund, UNICEF, has identified low immunisation coverage, poor sanitation, and malnutrition as major drivers behind the resurgence of polio and other vaccine-preventable diseases in Lagos.
Chief of the UNICEF Lagos Field Office, Celine Lafoucriere disclosed this while speaking at the 2025 World Immunisation Week Advocacy Walk for Polio in Lagos.
She warned that despite the progress made, polio is making a comeback in parts of the state and said routine immunisation must become the norm for every child.
Lafoucriere urged intensified efforts in health education, saying that estimated two million Nigerian children remained unvaccinated against killer diseases.
According to the official, vaccines have saved more than 150 million lives globally since 1974.
“The challenge is no longer awareness but belief.
“Does everybody truly believe in the validity of vaccines? I don’t think so. Persistent misinformation and vaccine hesitancy are key obstacles.
The first lady of Lagos State, Dr Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu admitted that immunisation is a right, not a privilege and urged residents to participate in the upcoming National Immunisation Plus Days targeting children under five from 3rd to 6th May.
The walk, held in partnership with the Lagos State Government, brought together top policymakers, youth advocates, and community leaders.
