The Kwara State Primary Health Care Development Agency (PHCDA) has identified misinformation as a significant barrier to polio eradication efforts, particularly at the grassroots level across the state.

This was disclosed during a stakeholders' meeting convened to assess the outcomes of the March immunisation exercise and develop strategies to address ongoing resistance and unvaccinated cases. Health officials observed that widespread scepticism regarding the existence of polio continues to hinder complete compliance.

Mr Olayioye Ajide, Director of Finance and Supply at the National Primary Health Care Development Agency, who hails from Kwara State, emphasised that additional efforts are required to guarantee every child receives the polio vaccine, notwithstanding rising awareness and better participation rates.

He noted that the initiative extends beyond vaccine administration, prioritising ongoing community dialogue to foster trust and encourage involvement. Ajide stressed that reaching every eligible child remains paramount, adding that the programme's success hinges largely on public comprehension and cooperation.

Also speaking, Mr Adisa Salmon, an official with the state PHCDA, urged media professionals to take a more proactive stance in public awareness campaigns. He called on journalists to disseminate factual information, dispel falsehoods, and help narrow the communication gap between health personnel and local communities.

"We need to come together to engage people, correct misinformation, and make them understand that polio is real and preventable".

Findings presented at the engagement indicated that the March drive yielded both advancements and setbacks. Whilst health workers achieved better coverage during the exercise, instances of non-compliance were still recorded.

Nevertheless, numerous refusal cases were successfully addressed through prompt community outreach and sensitisation efforts.

A post-campaign evaluation revealed that several children missed vaccination primarily because caregivers initially declined consent. Despite these challenges, campaign awareness remained considerably high, with the majority of respondents confirming they had received prior information about the exercise.

In Ilorin East Local Government Area and other reviewed councils, officials noted a rise in public awareness following the campaign, although complete compliance is yet to be attained.

Data shared during the session further illustrated differing performance levels across local government areas. Whilst certain districts recorded stronger vaccination uptake and fewer missed children, others exhibited shortcomings that demand more rigorous follow-up and community outreach.

Health authorities maintained that consistent community engagement, enhanced media partnership, and focused awareness drives are essential to overcoming vaccine hesitancy and securing broader coverage in subsequent rounds.

They reaffirmed their dedication to eliminating polio in Kwara State, appealing to residents to back the programme and ensure all qualified children are immunised.