The First Lady of Nigeria, Oluremi Tinubu, raised concern over the high incidence of cervical cancer in the country during the national launch of the HPV vaccine introduction to the National Immunization Programme in Abuja on Tuesday, October 24.
This was contained in a statement signed by Busola Kukoyi, special adviser on media to the First Lady.
Tinubu emphasised that the initiative does not end with the introduction of the vaccine into the routine immunization schedule but there must be a focus on education and awareness about the virus.
The First Lady said regular screenings must be encouraged and there must be improved access to healthcare with behavioural interventions as well.
She noted: “For me, I will recommend that girls who are under 18 years of age and sexually active, avail themselves the opportunity of this vaccine, to avoid a future of ill-health and possibly, death.
“In conclusion, I want to emphasize that the introduction of the HPV vaccine into our routine immunization schedule is a significant step forward in our mission to protect the health and future of our nation’s womenfolk and it will lead to a structured and systematic way of achieving a cervical cancer free generation.”
She noted that the initiative goes beyond preventing cervical cancer but also demonstrates the commitment of the administration of President Bola Tinubu GCFR’s administration to gender equity and empowering women to take control of their health.
Speaking earlier, the Coordinating Minister for Health and Social Welfare, Prof, Mohammed Ali Pate emphasized that the vaccine is safe, effective, and already in use in several countries of the world.
He stated: “No father or mother who really understands they can prevent a serious disease will stop their daughters from taking the vaccine, except they really do not understand.”
In their goodwill messages, the Sultan of Sokoto, health sector partners, and others, said the introduction of the vaccine will go a long way to enhance the health of the female folk in the country.
The First Lady later supervised the administration of the vaccine on the girls present at the event.