President Muhammadu Buhari has expressed his delight after the World Health Organization declares Nigeria Wild Polio Virus Free.
The President congratulated Nigerians on the historic feat, further appreciating all partners, local and international, for their relentless efforts in ensuring the clean health bill.
The president made his feelings known in a statement released by his Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity, Garba Shehu, in Abuja on Sunday.
Mr Buahri posited that this achievement reflects the resilient spirit of Nigerians, particularly the capacity of hardworking men and women in the health industry, who drew resources and support from multiple sectors to deal a final blow to the deadly virus.
He added that achieving this feat is a hard-won battle spanning over three decades of hard work and dedication by the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI).
He also commended the Federal, States and Local Governments, polio eradication team at all levels, the nation donors and development partners, both local and international for their contributions in achieving this feat.
His words, “This big battle would not have been won without the support of our donors and development partners.
“These include Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Aliko Dangote Foundation, Rotary International, United States Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, USAID, Sir Emeka Offor Foundation, Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and European Union.”
The president also acknowledged the contributions of the Global Health Canada, German Development Bank (KfW), WHO, UNICEF, Nigeria Governor’s Forum, Polio Survivors Group, the media, faith-based and other non-governmental organisations.
