70,000 Ogun Girls Vaccinated Against HPV to Prevent Cervical Cancer!
Reported by Sadauna Lydia Edeh (Journalist) | Sele Media Africa
In a major public health milestone for Ogun State, over 70,000 teenage girls aged nine and above have been vaccinated against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) a leading cause of cervical cancer in a concerted effort to safeguard their future health and wellbeing.
The vaccination drive, spearheaded by Pathfinder International in collaboration with the Ogun State Ministry of Health and the Nigeria Cancer Society (Ogun Branch), was highlighted during a scientific symposium held at the Federal Medical Centre’s Telemedicine Hall in Abeokuta to mark World Cancer Day 2026.
Speaking at the event, Udeme Emah, Ogun State Coordinator for Pathfinder International, said the initiative aims to strengthen protection against cervical cancer by vaccinating girls early, before exposure to the virus. She noted that the campaign also addresses persistent community myths that have slowed vaccine acceptance, including false claims portraying the vaccine as harmful or a form of population control.
Emah further explained that HPV Champions influential grassroots advocates are actively engaging communities through outreach programmes, media engagements, and advocacy visits to encourage parents to present their daughters for vaccination.
Health Sector Voices Support for Expanded Cancer Care
Health experts at the symposium emphasised that vaccination alone is not enough, stressing that early detection and regular screening remain critical in the fight against cancer. Professor Adeniyi Adenipekun, a radiation oncologist and palliative care advocate, underscored the importance of routine medical check-ups and early recognition of warning signs.
The Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment under Governor Dapo Abiodun to integrate cancer screening and treatment services into the State Health Insurance Scheme as part of a broader strategy to combat the disease.
Collaborative Efforts and Awareness Drives
The Ogun State Primary Health Care Development Board has commended the role of HPV Champions in boosting vaccine uptake across local communities. Health experts nationwide have also reiterated the importance of free HPV vaccination for eligible girls through primary healthcare centres, while calling for sustained public awareness to counter misinformation.
Why This Matters
Cervical cancer remains one of the most preventable forms of cancer through vaccination and early screening. Nigeria continues to expand its nationwide HPV vaccine rollout as part of broader efforts to reduce the burden of cervical cancer and improve women’s health outcomes.
CITATIONS:
1.Punch Newspaper
https://punchng.com
- Health Messaging
https://punchng.com/
3.Daily Post Nigeria.
https://dailypost.ng/
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