FG launches rollout of HPV vaccine, targets 7m girls

The federal government has launched the rollout of the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine.

HPV vaccines are vaccines that prevent infection by certain types of human papillomavirus, a common sexually transmitted infection that can cause a range of conditions in men and women, such as cervical cancer.

The vaccination targets over seven million girls aged nine to 14 and it is the largest number in a single round of HPV vaccination in the African region.

The vaccine will be administered by the ministry of health, through the platform of National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), in a five-day mass vaccination campaign in schools and communities in 16 states and the federal capital territory (FCT).

The vaccine will then be incorporated into routine immunisation schedules within health facilities.

The second phase of the vaccination introduction is scheduled to begin in May 2024 in 21 states.

Speaking at the launch on Tuesday, Ali Pate, minister of health, said the vaccination is a momentous opportunity to safeguard girls from the scourge of cervical cancers many years into the future.

“We are grateful to the various government agencies, development partners, health workers, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, and indeed all stakeholders, whose efforts, dedication, and amazing support have made this day possible,” he said.

“As a parent myself, I have 4 daughters. All of them have had the HPV vaccine to protect them against cervical cancer.

“I’d like to implore fellow parents and all leaders to dutifully ensure that this generation of our girls disrupt the preventable loss of lives to cervical cancer in addition to other untold hardship, loss, and pain.”

In a statement on Tuesday, the World Health Organisation (WHO) said with support from its country office in Nigeria and other partners, over 35,000 health workers have so far been trained ahead of the vaccine delivery in all health facilities.

“Vaccination sites have been established in all 4,163 wards across the 16 states included in the phase one rollout to ensure no eligible girl is left behind,” the statement reads.

“Mobile vaccination units have also been set up to ensure that remote communities can access the vaccine.”

Walter Kazadi Mulombo, WHO representative in Nigeria, said the launch is a pivotal moment in Nigeria’s efforts to lower the burden of cervical cancer.

“We’re committed to supporting the government increase access to the HPV vaccine to protect the health and well-being of the next generation of women,” the statement quoted Mulombo as saying.