Geospatial Data Management Support for the Planning and Delivery of Polio Vaccination Campaigns in Borno State, Northeast Nigeria

Planning of polio vaccination campaigns in Nigeria is based on the most granular level of administrative boundaries i.e. settlements and their accessibility in the conflict-ridden state of Borno. This was a challenge due to the different settlement lists being used at various administrative levels and constant migration due to insecurity. The State, supported by the partners of the Polio Eradication Initiative (PEI) in Borno, engaged the community leaders at the local level to create a master list of settlements. Data collection was conducted to ensure all settlements are geolocated for more efficient campaigns. Consequently, planning, delivery, and progress for campaigns have been refocused to be location-based and geospatially evidenced as maps complement the settlement list to provide more reference. Clear communication channels and feedback loops have been established to impart insight into the current accessibility, which is reflected in the master list. The results indicate a significant impact on vaccination reach in Borno in the last two years due to a collaborative effort of all the PEI partners aided by innovative technology. The same procedure is being followed to boost routine immunization in Borno, thereby providing assurance of the sustainability of processes put in place for the Polio program.