Progress toward poliomyelitis eradication–Nigeria, January 2002–March 2003

Since 1988, when the World Health Assembly resolved to eradicate poliomyelitis globally, the annual estimated incidence of polio has decreased >99%. Nigeria is the most populous country in Africa (estimated 2000 population: 127 million) and a major poliovirus reservoir. This report summarizes progress toward polio eradication in Nigeria during January 2002–March 2003, highlighting progress in acute flaccid paralysis (AFP) surveillance and evidence of wild poliovirus (WPV) circulation in areas of lower vaccination coverage. The findings underscore the importance of achieving high-quality supplementary immunization activities (SIAs).