Sokoto Struggles with Polio Vaccine Refusal as Cases Resurface
Sokoto State, Nigeria, is facing a critical challenge in its battle against polio. Despite concerted efforts to eradicate the disease, vaccine hesitancy remains alarmingly high, particularly in urban areas. The state recorded 20 cases of circulating Vaccine-Derived Poliovirus Type 2 (cVDPV2) last year, raising concerns about a potential resurgence.
Bashar Garba, the State Immunisation Officer (SIO) at the Sokoto State Primary Health Care Development Agency (SPHCDA), highlighted the persistent refusal of oral polio vaccines (OPV) in metropolitan local government areas (LGAs). Sokoto North, Sokoto South, and Wamakko LGAs top the list for non-compliance.
The Root of Vaccine Hesitancy
According to Garba, the refusal stems from deeply entrenched beliefs, often rooted in religious, political, and cultural factors. Some residents view the vaccine as unsafe, while others reject it due to political differences with the current government. Poverty also plays a role, as families prioritize food over vaccination.
“Refusal is highest in metropolitan areas, not rural communities,” Garba explained. “Some people have held these beliefs for decades, and changing their minds requires sustained effort.”
Old sermons and recordings from Islamic leaders condemning the vaccine still circulate on social media, perpetuating skepticism. Even when religious leaders reverse their stance, many residents refuse to trust the vaccine, convinced it’s harmful.
The Threat of Vaccine-Derived Polio
The cVDPV2 strain, a mutated form of the virus found in under-immunized populations, has become a global concern. Since 2017, cases linked to vaccine-derived poliovirus have surpassed those caused by the wild poliovirus. Sokoto’s 20 cases last year underscore the urgent need to address vaccine hesitancy and improve immunization coverage.
Efforts to Combat Hesitancy
The Sokoto State Government, alongside over 15 local and international partners, is working to boost immunization rates. Strategies include intensive advocacy, sensitization campaigns, and engagement with community leaders.
“We organize elite sensitization meetings to address non-compliance,” Garba said. “We also deploy Rapid Response Teams (RRT) comprising respected community members to persuade families to accept the vaccine.”
Motorized bands with megaphones traverse neighborhoods, spreading awareness about vaccination drives. Radio and TV programs feature health officials addressing public concerns, while banners and jingles reinforce the message.
Challenges in Implementation
Despite these efforts, challenges persist. Vaccine teams often face resistance, and some households are missed entirely. In some cases, team members collude with caregivers to mark children as vaccinated when they’re not, falsifying data and compromising campaign integrity.
“The teams are not sincere,” Garba admitted. “They’ll mark fingers without administering the vaccine, leaving children unprotected.”
Storage and transportation of vaccines also pose technical issues. Vaccines exposed to sunlight lose potency, reducing their effectiveness.
Plans for 2026 and Beyond
Sokoto aims to scale up its immunization coverage by 2026, focusing on routine immunization and polio campaigns. One key strategy is the Identify, Enumerate, and Vaccinate (IEV) initiative, which aims to track every eligible child under five and ensure they receive vaccines.
Additionally, the state plans to administer the inactivated polio vaccine (IPV), a stronger injectable vaccine, at least once a year. Border communities with Niger Republic will receive special attention to prevent cross-border transmission.
Partnerships Driving Progress
Sokoto’s immunization efforts are supported by organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, and the Aliko Dangote Foundation. These partners provide technical, logistical, and financial assistance, enhancing the state’s capacity to deliver vaccines effectively.
A Long Road Ahead
While Sokoto has made strides in digitizing its immunization system and improving campaign quality, the fight against polio is far from over. Addressing vaccine hesitancy, ensuring vaccine integrity, and overcoming logistical hurdles remain critical priorities.
As Garba aptly put it, “The virus will affect children if they’re not vaccinated. We must continue to push until every child is protected.”
— Reported by Nexio News
