The Association of Nigeria Health Journalists (ANHEJ) has congratulated Nigeria for being certified polio-free by the Africa Regional Certification Commission for Polio Eradication (ARCC).

On June 18, ARCC classified Nigeria as wild poliovirus free.

ANHEJ gave the commendation in a statement, signed by its President, Mr. Hassan Zaggi, on Sunday in Abuja.

According to the statement, the achievement is a historic moment in Nigeria’s history.

“We also congratulate the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) for its consistent efforts since the war against the poliovirus started many years ago.

“The NPHCDA under its current Executive Director, Dr. Faisal Shuaib, has made Nigeria proud by improving the health indices of the country.

“Shuaib brought with him the determination, zeal, and focus which has charged Nigeria’s once low immunization status to one that has been commended by the international community.

“This is one effort that has brought to an end the poliovirus in Nigeria.

“He has also brought transparency and accountability to the NPHCDA, which engendered trust and confidence from our international donors, thereby attracting the needed support that got Nigeria to this state.”

ANHEJ also applauded partners, including Rotary International, Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, traditional rulers, the media, and other critical stakeholders for the collective efforts that made the polio-free status possible.

The association called for more efforts by stakeholders to sustain the polio-free status.

“We also call on the Federal Government to improve funding for the health sector so that the country’s maternal and infant mortality can continue to drop,” it stated.