By Able Daniel, Lafia

The Nasarawa State Government has assured residents that there is an adequate supply of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine to protect girls aged nine and above from cervical cancer.

Despite the vaccine’s availability, there has been a low turnout for vaccination, largely due to myths, misconceptions, and cultural beliefs.

Speaking at a one-day media engagement organized by the Community Link for Health and Family Planning (CLHFPA) in Lafia, Mr. Ishaya Amegwa, the State Health Educator of the Nasarawa State Primary Health Care Development Agency (NAPHDA), emphasized the need for increased awareness.

Amegwa revealed that while over 2,100 eligible children have been vaccinated, some local government areas (LGAs), particularly Lafia and Toto, recorded extremely low numbers. In January, only 33 eligible children received the vaccine in these areas, a situation he described as “unacceptable.”

To improve coverage, Amegwa announced that the state government has fully integrated the HPV vaccine into its routine immunization program, making it freely available at all government health facilities.

He urged parents not to be misled by misinformation, stressing that the vaccine is safe and effective. Citing global data, he noted that countries that have introduced the HPV vaccine recorded an 83% reduction in HPV prevalence among girls aged 13-19 within 5-8 years, while precancerous lesions among girls aged 15-19 declined by 51%.

Similarly, CLHFPA Chairperson Mrs. Mary Ashenanye expressed concern over the poor vaccine uptake in Nasarawa State. She called for intensified awareness campaigns to educate the public and encourage participation.

“This media engagement is essential to sensitizing the public about the need to take their daughters for HPV vaccination, which is available in all primary healthcare centers across the state,” Ashenanye stated.

Meanwhile, Mr. Shimataver Aondoakaa, Assistant Director of News at the Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria (FRCN) North Central Zone, highlighted the role of the media in combating cervical cancer.

He urged journalists to leverage their platforms to promote positive behavioral change and collaborate with health authorities to increase vaccine acceptance.

The HPV vaccine remains a crucial tool in the fight against cervical cancer, and stakeholders continue to push for greater awareness and participation across the state.