The wife of the Anambra State governor, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, has inaugurated a free Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccination program in the state, integrating it into the routine immunization schedule. The launch took place at Michael Tansi Secondary School in Aguleri, Anambra East Local Government Area, signaling a significant effort to eliminate cervical cancer among teenage girls in the state.
The HPV vaccine will be administered to girls aged 9 to 14 at primary health centers and public health facilities across Anambra. This initiative is driven by the Anambra State Primary Healthcare Agency (ANSPHCDA), in collaboration with the State Ministry of Health and supported by partners such as the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), IVAC, and SAWO.
During the launch, Mrs. Soludo emphasized the growing threat of cervical cancer, noting that annually in Nigeria, approximately 12,000 women are diagnosed, and 8,000 women succumb to the disease. She highlighted the devastating impact on families, with women being taken away at the prime of their lives, leaving behind grieving husbands and children.
Through her NGO, Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative, Mrs. Soludo is offering free cervical cancer screening and treatment at various health facilities in Anambra. She urged women aged 25 and above to get screened for early detection and treatment.
Mrs. Soludo also called on traditional and religious leaders to spread the message and encouraged teachers to facilitate the vaccination of eligible students.
The Anambra State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Afam Obidike, noted that the vaccine, which normally costs N24,000, will be provided free of charge, primarily benefiting those who cannot afford it. He praised the Soludo administration for its systematic approach to safeguarding the health of Anambra’s children.
Pharmacist Chisom Uchem, Executive Secretary of the ANSPHCDA, assured that the vaccination would continue at primary health centers, reiterating that the vaccines are free, safe, and effective.
Representatives from the WHO and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency commended the state government’s commitment and Mrs. Soludo’s role as a cervical cancer champion. They pledged their support to ensure the initiative’s full implementation.
To demonstrate the vaccination process, Mrs. Soludo performed the official administration of the HPV vaccine.
