Nigeria has made significant progress in its efforts to protect girls from cervical cancer by achieving a 78% vaccination rate for the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in the first phase of its rollout.
This impressive milestone was reached in 14 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), where the vaccine was introduced to girls aged nine to 14 years.
Dr. Joseph Urang, the Immunisation Officer for the Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board, commended the achievement and highlighted the importance of the HPV vaccine in preventing cervical cancer, the second most common cancer among Nigerian women. He emphasized that the vaccine is free, safe, and highly effective, particularly when administered between the ages of nine and 14.
The success of the HPV vaccine rollout in Nigeria is a testament to the government’s commitment to safeguarding the health of its citizens. By protecting girls against cervical cancer, Nigeria is taking a proactive step towards reducing the burden of this preventable disease and promoting overall well-being.
