Adamawa woman regrets denying first two children polio vaccine
As immunization gains traction in Yola North
Despite some lingering challenges in the ongoing polio immunization efforts, residents of Yola North Local Government Area in Adamawa State have reported a significant increase in acceptance of the oral polio vaccine. More parents are now willingly presenting their children for vaccination, indicating a positive shift in public perception toward immunization efforts in the region.
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During a recent monitoring mission by a team of journalists covering the latest round of the polio immunization campaign, which commenced on April 26, 2025, several community members spoke candidly about their experiences and changing attitudes towards vaccination.
One of the most compelling testimonies came from Aisha Lawal, a 32-year-old housewife and mother of four, residing in Alkalawa Ward, Yola North. In an emotional interview, Aisha expressed deep regret over her earlier decision not to allow her first two children, now aged 14 and 11, to receive the polio vaccine during their infancy.
Reflecting on her past decisions, Aisha admitted that her earlier stance against immunization was based entirely on misinformation, myths, and an unfounded fear of vaccines, which at the time were widespread in some parts of the community. Fortunately, her two older children did not suffer from the debilitating effects of polio or other vaccine-preventable diseases. However, she observed a remarkable difference between her older children and her younger ones, who had been fully immunized.
“My regret for not allowing my two older children to be immunized is deep and profound,” Aisha stated, her voice laden with emotion.
“The difference is glaring—my younger two, who received all their routine immunizations including the polio vaccine, are noticeably healthier and more intellectually robust compared to their older siblings,” she said.
She continued, “My initial fears about vaccination were rooted in myths and misconceptions. We were wrongly made to believe that vaccines were harmful. But over time, after witnessing the health benefits in my younger children and seeing how immunization protects against diseases, I have not only changed my views but become a passionate ambassador for vaccination. I now go out of my way to educate other parents and encourage them to immunize their children.”
Aisha’s story mirrors the changing tides in Yola North, where greater awareness campaigns and consistent health outreach programs have gradually dispelled the myths surrounding vaccination.
Speaking on the level of acceptance among residents, Malam Muhammad Sufi Abdullahi, the Ward Head of Alkalawa Ward, confirmed that immunization acceptance in his community is now almost universal. He praised the dedication of health workers and community leaders in fostering trust and education among residents.
“Except for minor challenges, particularly those driven by the harsh economic climate, the level of acceptance of immunization in Alkalawa Ward is almost 100 percent. The few issues we encounter usually relate to demands for food, milk, or medicine from parents, who are struggling due to the difficult economic realities,” Abdullahi said.
He added that despite these occasional hurdles, community leaders and health teams consistently engage with parents, counseling them on the importance of immunization for the health and future of their children.
“Whenever there are pockets of resistance or hesitation, we intervene promptly, addressing concerns diplomatically and sensitively. We make them understand that the health of their children is paramount,” he explained.
The growing success of the polio immunization campaign in Yola North was also echoed by Rashida Ishaq, the team lead for Alkalawa Ward Team 7. Rashida, who has been at the forefront of the vaccination exercise, shared her observations with journalists, noting that the immunization process has been largely smooth and efficient.
“Aside from a few challenges, primarily involving requests for food, milk, sweets, or drugs by some parents, the overall compliance rate is excellent. In fact, I can confidently say that the acceptability rate is almost 100 percent. The process is robust and largely seamless, thanks to the collaborative efforts of health officials, community leaders, and the parents themselves,” she said.
Rashida emphasized the importance of continued community engagement, noting that building trust remains critical to sustaining high levels of immunization coverage. She praised the resilience and commitment of her team members, many of whom have worked tirelessly in difficult conditions to ensure every eligible child receives the vaccine.
The ongoing polio immunization campaign in Adamawa State, particularly in areas like Yola North, is a testament to the power of sustained public health education and grassroots mobilization. Through the combined efforts of government agencies, international partners, health workers, and community leaders, once-entrenched myths and fears about vaccines are gradually being replaced by trust and acceptance.
Stories like Aisha Lawal’s serve as powerful reminders of why immunization campaigns must continue to be supported and strengthened. They highlight the real-world consequences of vaccine hesitancy as well as the tangible benefits of vaccination—healthier children, stronger communities, and a future free from debilitating diseases like polio.
