Gombe Rallies Against Cervical Cancer as Coalition Pushes HPV Vaccination Drive

Gombe Rallies Against Cervical Cancer as Coalition Pushes HPV Vaccination Drive

By Auwal Ahmad Umar

The fight against cervical cancer gained fresh momentum in Gombe State as the Arewa Cancer Control Coalition, in partnership with health authorities, rolled out a large-scale awareness campaign promoting Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination and preventive care.

The outreach programme, which drew health experts, community leaders and residents, focused on educating the public, particularly young girls and parents, on the life-saving benefits of early vaccination and routine screening.

Speaking at the event, President of the International Papillomavirus Society of Nigeria (IPVS), Professor Muhammad Manga, commended the Federal Government for strengthening access to vaccines and cancer care services. He highlighted ongoing efforts led by Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, noting that free diagnosis and treatment initiatives are being expanded through national institutions and global partnerships.

Professor Manga urged residents, especially girls aged 9 to 14, to take advantage of the ongoing campaign by visiting nearby health facilities for vaccination. According to him, achieving at least 90 percent coverage among eligible girls is critical to meeting the global target set by the World Health Organization for eliminating cervical cancer.

He also called on religious and community leaders to play a more active role in sensitising rural communities, stressing that increased awareness among parents and women would significantly boost vaccine uptake and reduce preventable deaths.

“Parents and guardians must ensure that girls from the age of nine receive the HPV vaccine. This is a crucial step toward safeguarding the future health of our young population,” he said.

In his remarks, the Director of Disease Control and Immunisation at the Gombe State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Musa Mustapha, emphasised the need for regular screening alongside immunisation.

He noted that early detection remains key to effective treatment, urging residents to support the initiative and embrace preventive healthcare practices.

The campaign is part of broader efforts to curb the spread of HPV and reduce the burden of cervical cancer, particularly among young women who remain most at risk.