Cancer, particularly cervical cancer, is a significant public health concern in Nigeria. The disease is caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), and lack of awareness, inadequate screening, and limited access to healthcare services contribute to its high incidence and mortality rates.
Despite efforts to combat cervical cancer, several challenges persist, including limited awareness, inadequate screening, limited access to healthcare, and cultural and social factors. To overcome these challenges, it is essential to increase awareness, improve screening, enhance access to healthcare, address cultural and social barriers, and support research and development. The state has successfully launched the HPV vaccination campaign, achieving 99% coverage of the target population.
Dr. Mu’azu Omeiza Musa, Executive Director of the Kogi State Primary Health Care Development Agency, in his presentation, highlighted the state’s achievements in driving Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Vaccination to prevent cervical cancer. He categorized these achievements into three sections:
1.Pre-implementation achievements:
a: Established coordination team (HPVVI TWG).
b: Conducted pre- implementation activities, advocacy, communication, and social mobilization.
c: Developed micro plans and daily implementation plans.
e: Conducted training sessions for health workers and stakeholders.
2. Implementation achievements:
a: Successfully launched the Human Papilloma Virus Vaccination Implementation (HPVVI) campaign on May 27, 2024.
b: Implemented a 5-day campaign with a 2-day mop-up exercise.
c: Achieved 99% coverage of target population (284,750 eligible females vaccinated).
d: Established fixed posts, community vaccination teams, and school vaccination teams.
3.Post-implementation achievements:
a: Developed plan to routinize HPV vaccination.
b: Trained health workers on vaccine handling, safety, and management.
c: Identified best practices and challenges.
To sustain the momentum of progress, Dr. Mu’azu suggested intensifying advocacy, communication, social mobilization activities, engaging media outlets, and strengthening routine immunization. He commended development partners, including WHO, UNICEF, and others, for their support.
Prof. SPO Akogu, Provost of the College of Health Sciences (CHS) at Prince Abubakar Audu University, Anyigba, in his speech , called for action on cervical cancer screening. He emphasized the importance of sensitizing and training healthcare workers to conduct routine screenings.
To fight against this, Prof. Akogu’s call to action highlighted the need to increase awareness about cervical cancer among women and the public and to ensure healthcare professionals are equipped to conduct screenings, interpret results, and provide adequate treatment.
The Vice Chancellor, Prof. Marietu Tenuche acknowledged the effective collaboration between the State Government, State Ministry of Health, and the Agency, which has been instrumental in achieving success in the health sector. She recognized the significant progress made in the health sector and emphasized the importance of sustaining the momentum of progress.
Prof. Tenuche appealed to the State Government, State Ministry of Health, and the Agency to continue their support for the health sector. She stressed the need for community engagement and participation in health initiatives and highlighted the importance of health education and awareness in preventing diseases and promoting healthy lifestyles.
In their separate words of tribute to the deceased, friends, and colleagues, including his closest friend, Dr. Anthony Nayo paid tribute to late Dr. Agbana. They highlighted his kindness, generosity, and infectious smile and acknowledged his unwavering support and encouragement, which had a profound impact on their lives. The tribute was a celebration of Dr. Agbana’s life, legacy, and lasting impression.
The event was attended by notable dignitaries, including
Dr. Onimisi Abdullahi Ajayi, DCH&SD
Dr. Bola Kelvin Emmanuel, SC BHCPF
Dr. Hadiya Ismail Ahmed, MCH FP
– Mr. Theophilus Olorunmaiye Ade, PM IMPACT
Dr. Nayo Anthony, Acting CMD, Prince Audu Teaching Hospital, Anyigba.
Dr. Sunday Abah, HOD Anatomy CHS PAAU
Dr. Omotosho Dare, Dean Faculty of Basic Medical Sciences
Dr. (Mrs.) Olubumi Agbana
Representatives from various organizations, including the Committee of Deans and HODs of PAAU, Deans and HODs of the College of Health Sciences, PAAU, University Health Services Unit, Nigeria Medical Association, Kogi State branch, were also present.
AWOKESON, RITA P
Public Relation Officer
Kogi State Primary Health Care Dev.Agency
