Traditional rulers in Taraba State have been recognized for their outstanding commitment to eradicating polio through grassroots mobilization and advocacy. The Chigari Foundation, a leading organization in public health initiatives, awarded the monarchs over the weekend during a ceremony held at the residence of the Galadima of Muri, Alhaji Abba Tukur Abba, in Jalingo.
The event celebrated the crucial role traditional leaders play in ensuring the success of vaccination programs in their communities. According to the Foundation, their unwavering dedication has been pivotal in achieving widespread immunization coverage and reducing the risk of polio outbreaks across Taraba State.
Speaking at the ceremony, Alhaji Bello Ibrahim, Senior Advocate Consultant for the Chigari Foundation, emphasized the importance of grassroots involvement in achieving a polio-free Nigeria. He praised the traditional rulers for their leadership, which has inspired trust and active participation among their people. Ibrahim noted that the initiative aims to motivate other ward and district leaders to champion upcoming immunization campaigns.
“The commitment of these traditional rulers has significantly advanced the fight against polio in Taraba State,” Ibrahim stated. “Their efforts serve as a model for community-driven public health success.”
The Galadima of Muri echoed these sentiments, commending his fellow rulers for their sustained advocacy for immunization. He also called on other organizations to emulate the Chigari Foundation by supporting traditional leaders in their efforts to promote health initiatives in Taraba and beyond.
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Dr. Nuhu Tukura, Executive Secretary of the Taraba State Primary Health Development Agency, represented by the Director of Community Health Services, Alhaji Zekaria Chindo, highlighted the importance of partnerships between public health institutions and community leaders. He applauded the Chigari Foundation for its collaborative approach, which has significantly boosted immunization participation in the state.
Speaking on behalf of the award recipients, Alhaji Mohammed Bello reaffirmed the monarchs’ commitment to public health programs, particularly those aimed at protecting children from preventable diseases like polio.
The Chigari Foundation emphasized that the event underscores the critical role of traditional leaders in fostering trust and community involvement in healthcare initiatives. By leveraging the influence of these leaders, the fight against polio and other preventable diseases can reach even the most remote areas, setting a standard for public health advocacy across Nigeria.
