6 April 2005  -- Enthusiasm and commitment for polio eradication was high at the flag-off of the second round of National Immunization Days at Talata Marafa local government area in Zamfara State. World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for Africa, Dr. Luis Gomes Sambo, joined Professor E. Lambo, Federal Minister of Health and His Excellency the Executive Governor of Zamfara State Alhaji Ahmed Sani Yariman Bakura to launch the final push to stop polio for good in Zamfara state. Dr Sambo commended the commitment and support of the Government of Zamfara to eradicating polio and strengthening health systems across the state. Ahead of World Health Day, Dr Sambo reinforced that the support of leaders at all levels must continue if poliovirus transmission is to be stopped in 2005. He challenged Zamfara state and all Nigerians to make every child count. 'By ensuring that we reach every child during national immunization days, we are helping to make every child and their families count.

Together we are helping to ensure all children can grow up to have a brighter future that is free from polio.' The Governor of Zamfara reinforced the commitment of the state to protecting the health of children across the state, calling for all hands to be on deck for the April immunization days. The Governor appealed to all parents to bring their children for immunization to ensure polio is stopped in the state.