Bill Gates Urges Nigeria to Sustain Commitment to Polio Eradication

Bill Gates, co-chair of the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, convened a media roundtable in Lagos on June 4, 2025, during which he praised Nigeria’s progress in reducing polio cases by approximately 40% in the first quarter of the year compared to the same period in 2024 . Despite this significant advancement, Gates stressed that the fight against polio remains far from over and warned against complacency amid global funding constraints .

Gates underscored the importance of maintaining and strengthening vaccination efforts, especially in polio-prone regions such as Sokoto, Kano, Katsina, and Kebbi. He highlighted the persistent risk posed by circulating vaccine-derived poliovirus type 2 (cVPV2) and emphasized the need for coordinated efforts between the Nigerian government, frontline health workers, and partners like the Global Polio Eradication Initiative (GPEI), UNICEF, and WHO .

Acknowledging that global funding is tightening, Gates pointed out that Nigeria cannot afford to lose its momentum. “Now is not the time to stop because, unfortunately, the virus is still circulating, and we need stronger action,” he said, urging continued investment in immunisation campaigns and surveillance. He expressed confidence that with sustained effort, Nigeria could help bring the world closer to a polio-free future .

Gates’s call builds on a legacy of successful public health collaboration. The Nigerian government, alongside partners and community leaders—such as traditional rulers, religious leaders, and frontline workers—has already made impressive strides, yet challenges remain. His message serves as a timely reminder that eradication demands unwavering commitment until the threat is fully eliminated.

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