Cervical cancer: Kwara, Oyo to vaccinate over 900,000 girls

The Kwara and Oyo state governments on Monday said over 900,000 girls aged 9-14, would be vaccinated against cervical cancer. 

Dr Nusirat Elelu, Executive Secretary of the Kwara State Primary Health Care Development Agency, said the state targets to vaccinate 311,000 schoolgirls within five days.

Elelu stated this at the flag-off of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine rollout and Greening Our Future Initiative in Ilorin.

He reassured stakeholders that the HPV vaccine is free, safe, and effective, urging community mobilisation to ensure all eligible girls receive the vaccination.

Oyo targets over 600,000 girls 

• Katsina buys N20bn fertiliser, subsidises 400,000 bags for farmers
• Okoye expresses joy over Super Eagles return

The Oyo State Government said it has introduced the HPV vaccine into its Extended Programme on Immunisation (EPI), focusing on girls aged 9-14. 

Speaking at a press conference in Ibadan, yesterday, Dr Muideen Olatunji, Executive Secretary of the Oyo State Primary Healthcare Board, said the programme aims to vaccinate 639,049 girls.

Also, Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has called on parents to ensure their daughters receive the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, now available in 21 states, including Kaduna. 

Speaking at the 2024 Children’s Day celebration and parade in Kaduna yesterday, the governor, represented by his deputy, Dr Hadiza Sabuwa Balarabe, said HPV is a leading cause of cervical cancer, responsible for 95% of cases.

“I urge all parents and guardians to support this crucial vaccination programme to protect our daughters’ health and secure their future. Let’s commit to making this initiative a success,” the governor said.