The First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, has raised alarm over the alarming prevalence of cervical cancer in the country. Her remarks came during the national launch of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccine’s inclusion in the National Immunization Programme’s routine schedule, held in Abuja.
Mrs. Tinubu underscored that while introducing the HPV vaccine into the routine immunization schedule is a commendable step, it should be the beginning, not the end, of a comprehensive approach to tackling cervical cancer. Education and awareness campaigns about the virus must take centre stage. She further stressed the importance of encouraging regular screenings and improving access to healthcare while implementing behavioral interventions.
The First Lady urged girls under the age of 18 who are sexually active to take advantage of the vaccine, emphasizing that it offers protection against future health issues and, potentially, fatalities. In her concluding statement, she emphasized that incorporating the HPV vaccine into the routine immunization schedule is a significant stride towards securing the health and future of the nation’s women and working towards a generation free from cervical cancer.
Mrs. Tinubu noted that this initiative extends beyond the prevention of cervical cancer; it reflects the administration of President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to gender equity and empowering women to take control of their health.
In an earlier address, the Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, Ali Pate, assured that the HPV vaccine is safe and effective, already being utilised in numerous countries worldwide. He stressed that parents who understand the vaccine’s potential for preventing a severe disease are unlikely to withhold it from their daughters.
The event received support from diverse quarters, with the Sultan of Sokoto, Sa’ad Abubakar, health sector partners, and other stakeholders offering their goodwill messages. They affirmed that introducing the HPV vaccine is a pivotal step towards enhancing the health and well-being of women in Nigeria.
In a practical demonstration of her commitment, Mrs. Tinubu personally supervised the administration of the vaccine to the girls present at the event.
Signed,
Busola Kukoyi
SA Media to the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
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