The Nigerian government has disclosed 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, made this known during the Monday bi-annual review meeting of religious leaders on PHC Delivery in Abuja.
Mr Shuaib said cervical cancer affecting mothers, sisters and daughters is caused by HPV; hence, the government will begin the rollout of the HPV vaccines on 25 September for girls between the ages of 9 and 15.
He noted that in its endeavour to reach every corner of the nation, the pivotal role of religious leaders must be emphasised.
Mr Shuaib said religious leaders possess the power to disseminate critical information that can influence behaviour, dispel myths and encourage preventive practice.
“In their roles as spiritual guides, they own the power to influence hearts and minds, and their words carry weight and inspire action,” he said.
He urged religious leaders to join hands with the medical community in championing the course of HPV vaccination nationwide.
“By encouraging HPV vaccination within your congregations, you become advocates of life and guardians of health,” he said.
Minister of Health and Social Welfare Muhammad Pate, on his part, said there is a need to constantly blend the spiritual with scientific knowledge and skills to address the country’s health challenges.
Mr Pate, who was represented by his Senior Special Adviser, Emmanuel Odu, said religious leaders would help raise awareness in their congregations about the free HPV vaccines, dispel myths and misconceptions about the vaccine, and also encourage members to embrace better health-seeking behaviours.
His words:
“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.
“This is most commendable, as I urge you to keep it up, as the government alone cannot do.”
Mr Pate assured the Tinubu-led administration of changing the narrative by making health care affordable and accessible to all Nigerians.
