Enimere Àkànbí
The wife of Oyo State Governor, Mrs. Tamunomini Makinde, has emphasized the importance of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination in preventing cervical cancer among young girls.
Mrs. Makinde made the call during the official flag-off of the “Oya” Campaign, organized by Girl Effect Nigeria in partnership with Oyo Ministry of Health and Primary Health Care Board, held in Ibadan.
The campaign aims to raise awareness about HPV vaccine and encourage girls between the ages of 9 and 14 to get vaccinated against cervical cancer.
Mrs. Makinde stressed the need for parents, guardians, and stakeholders to harmonize efforts in ensuring that young girls are protected against the disease.
She also highlighted the importance of nutrition and a balanced diet in building a strong immune system and preventing diseases.
The First Lady appreciated Girl Effect Nigeria for sensitizing and educating younger girls and women about the importance of the HPV vaccine.
The State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Ajetunmobi Olusaserimi, expressed gratitude to Girl Effect for supporting the state government’s mandate to prioritize the welfare of every girl child.
Dr. Olusaserimi assured that the state government would take advantage of the opportunity to ensure that every girl child receives the vaccine.
Earlier, the Country Director of Girl Effect, Mrs. Boladale Akin-Kolapo, revealed that 360 girl children had already received the vaccine and called on community and religious leaders to speak out against rumors about the harmful effects of the vaccine.
Mrs. Akin-Kolapo pledged that Girl Effect would ensure that all girl children in the state’s 33 local government areas receive the vaccine.
The event highlighted the presentation of an award to Mrs. Makinde in recognition of her efforts in championing the health and well-being of young girls in Oyo State.
Leave a Reply