The Sydani Group, a management consulting firm, has emphasized the need for collaboration between the government and stakeholders to promote widespread acceptance of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in Nigeria.
This call to action is driven by the alarming statistics on cervical cancer, which claims over 8,000 lives annually in the country.
Cervical cancer is the third most common cancer and the second leading cause of cancer deaths among Nigerian women aged 15-44. In 2020, Nigeria recorded 12,000 new cases and 8,000 deaths from cervical cancer. However, vaccination against HPV and screening and treatment of pre-cancer lesions are cost-effective ways to prevent cervical cancer.
To combat this growing health issue, the Federal Government of Nigeria introduced the HPV vaccine into the routine immunization system in October 2023, targeting over seven million girls aged 9-14. This initiative is supported by Gavi and partners like Sydani Group. The first phase covered 16 states, while the second phase, launched on May 27, 2024, expanded to 21 additional states.
Stakeholders have played a crucial role in advocating for the vaccine rollout, fostering awareness, and addressing misconceptions. Traditional leaders and organizations, such as the National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools in Benue State, have mobilized communities and emphasized the importance of protecting adolescent girls.
The collective effort at both governmental and grassroots levels is essential to achieving widespread acceptance of the vaccine. As the HPV vaccine routinization continues, stakeholders are encouraged to further intensify their efforts. By working together, Nigeria is making significant strides toward eliminating cervical cancer and improving public health outcomes for future generations.
