FG Rolls out HPV Vaccines Sept. 25

Onyebuchi Ezigbo in Abuja 

Federal government has said that it plans to introduce the lifesaving Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines to protect teenage girls against cervical cancer and other related diseases.

The Executive Director of the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), Faisal Shuaib disclosed this during the bi-annual review meeting of religious leaders on PHC Delivery in Abuja on Monday.

Shuaib said the the agency will begin the rollout of the HPV vaccines on September 25 for girls between the ages of 9 and 15.

“This cervical cancer affecting our mothers, sisters and daughters is caused by HPV,” he said.

“On 25 September this year, we will be introducing the HPV vaccine that prevents cervical cancer when given to our daughters between 9 and 15 years.”

Speaking at the event, the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Muhammad Pate, said there was a need to constantly blend the spiritual with scientific knowledge and skills to address the country’s health challenges.

Pate, who was represented by his Senior Special Adviser, Emmanuel Odu, said the religious leaders can help create awareness among their congregation regarding the free HPV vaccines and also dispel myths and misconceptions about the vaccine. 

He said that the leaders could also encourage members to embrace better health-seeking behaviours.

“I acknowledge the contributions of our faith community to healthcare delivery in the country, as we are aware that some of our religious organisations provide healthcare services at the primary, secondary and even tertiary healthcare level,” he said.

“This is most commendable, as I urge you to keep it up, as the government alone cannot do.”

Pate said the current administration will change the narrative by making health care affordable and accessible to all Nigerians.

“We will, therefore, need the support of the faith community as we roll out the government’s agenda for the health of our people,” he said.