By DAYO ADESULU
In a decisive move to combat cervical cancer and reduce female mortality rates, the Federal Government of Nigeria has commenced a Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccination campaign targeting young girls aged 9 to 14 years across secondary schools in the North Central geopolitical zone.
The HPV vaccine, which prevents a virus responsible for the majority of cervical cancer cases, is being rolled out as part of a nationwide effort to safeguard the health of Nigerian women.
HPV: A Deadly Yet Preventable Threat
Human Papilloma Virus is the most common viral infection of the reproductive tract, primarily transmitted through sexual contact. Many women succumb to cervical cancer caused by HPV, often due to late detection or lack of preventive measures.
Recognizing this public health challenge, the government, through the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), launched the vaccination drive to eradicate cervical cancer, starting with secondary schools and expanding to marketplaces and religious centers.
FG’s Commitment to Women’s Health
Speaking at the HPV regional vaccination flag-off in Lafia, Nasarawa State, NICRAT’s Director-General, Prof. Usman Malami Aliyu, represented by Senior Scientific Officer Musa Mutiu-Terere, emphasized the campaign’s goal of reducing cervical cancer rates nationwide.
“This event demonstrates the Federal Government’s commitment to improving women’s health. By targeting secondary schools, we aim to vaccinate a significant number of beneficiaries during this initial phase,” he stated.
Aliyu commended President Bola Tinubu and the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency for their unwavering support in ensuring the program’s success.
Calls for Participation
The NICRAT Director-General urged students and schools to actively participate, highlighting the government’s substantial investment in the initiative.
Dr. Usman Iskilu Saleh, Executive Secretary of the Nasarawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, reassured parents of the vaccine’s safety. He emphasized its importance as a life-saving measure for young girls, protecting them from cervical cancer’s devastating effects.
WHO and Stakeholders Back Initiative
Bilqisu Hussaini, a representative of the World Health Organization (WHO), expressed gratitude for the vaccination program, urging parents and guardians to ensure their children receive the vaccine.
Other stakeholders, including Jessica Philip from the Nasarawa State Ministry of Education, Hauwa Kaura from Lafia LGA Health, and Beatrice Osi from the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency, pledged full support to NICRAT for the initiative’s success.
Broader Plans for Vaccination
NICRAT plans to extend the vaccination drive to religious centers and markets in the coming weeks, aiming to maximize reach and effectiveness.
With this initiative, Nigeria takes a significant step toward achieving its goal of eradicating cervical cancer and ensuring the health and well-being of future generations.
Key Takeaways
- HPV vaccination targets girls aged 9–14 in secondary schools across North Central Nigeria.
- The campaign aims to eradicate cervical cancer nationwide.
- Parents and schools are encouraged to support the initiative for a healthier future.
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