The Nasarawa State Government has launched an HPV screening initiative for 100 women as part of its ongoing efforts to prevent cervical cancer and improve women’s health. The program also highlights the importance of vaccinating girls aged 9-14 years against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), a leading cause of cervical cancer. Health officials are calling for parents and guardians to actively support the vaccination campaign to protect future generations ¹ ².
Governor Abdullahi Sule, represented by Deputy Governor Dr. Emmanuel Akabe, emphasized the state’s commitment to reducing cervical cancer cases. He reassured residents that the HPV vaccine is safe, free, and available at all government health facilities across the state. This initiative is part of the state’s broader strategy to integrate the vaccine into its routine immunization program, ensuring accessibility for all eligible girls ² ³.
The Executive Secretary of the Nasarawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Dr. Mohammed Usman Adis, explained that the screening and vaccination efforts aim to drastically reduce cervical cancer rates. He noted that the vaccine has a 90% effectiveness rate in preventing the disease and urged families to participate actively in the program. The state government is also intensifying awareness campaigns to address myths and misconceptions surrounding the vaccine ² ⁴.
Our correspondence Cosmas Abai reports that, Health educators and advocacy groups, including Pathfinder International and the Community Link for Health and Family Planning Advocacy, have been collaborating with local authorities to promote the program. They stress the importance of early vaccination and screening, particularly in rural areas where access to healthcare services remains limited. These efforts aim to improve awareness and increase participation among women and young girls ⁵ ³.
Parents have been urged to dismiss harmful myths about the vaccine and ensure their daughters are vaccinated. The campaign is being supported by international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and UNICEF, which have praised Nasarawa’s proactive approach to combating cervical cancer ² ⁶.
With 810 vaccination centers approved across the state, the government is optimistic about achieving its goal of vaccinating 90% of eligible girls by 2030. This initiative is seen as a critical step in reducing mortality rates and ensuring healthier futures for women and girls in Nasarawa State ³ ⁴.