Bill Gates urges Nigeria to continue momentum for polio eradication

Bill Gates, Chair of Gates Foundation, has advised the Federal Government to continue its longstanding commitment to end polio transmission in the country.

Gates said this during a media roundtable with selected journalists on Wednesday in Lagos.

He emphasised that, with global funding tightening, it’s more important than ever that Nigeria maintains the momentum of polio eradication.

“Now is not the time to stop because, unfortunately, the virus is still circulating, and we need stronger action, especially in the states of Sokoto, Kano, Katsina, and Kebbi.

“What is important now is that the government urgently continues its longstanding commitment alongside partners in the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI) and the heroic efforts of frontline health workers to end polio transmission.

“The emergence of variant polio cases remains a serious challenge and can fuel doubts about vaccine safety.

“That’s why we are supporting Nigerian-led and GPEI partners like UNICEF and WHO to engage affected communities directly, building trust through transparent communication, listening to concerns, and working with local leaders to dispel misinformation.

“That’s what we need to do more and the key to stopping outbreaks lies in rapid, high-quality response campaigns and closing immunity gaps,” Gates said.

He highlighted the importance of robust routine immunisation coverage to achieve and sustain a polio-free world, increasing population immunity and reducing the immediate and long-term risk of polio.