Launching HPV Education and Vaccination on International Women’s Day
To mark International Women’s Day (IWD), Girl Effect, in collaboration with Kids & Teens Resource Centre (K&TRC), launched an HPV education and vaccination campaign in Akure South and Odigbo Local Government Areas of Ondo State. This initiative aims to educate parents and ensure eligible girls receive the HPV vaccine, a crucial step in preventing cervical cancer.
Empowering Champions for HPV Awareness
As part of this initiative, 40 selected women from Akure South and Odigbo LGAs were trained to become HPV education and vaccination Champions. These Champions, equipped with the Champions’ App, play a key role in spreading accurate health information.
The campaign will train a total of 60 Champions, including 40 community-based health workers and 20 school counsellors. The first engagement, led by Obaromi Hellen Olubumi, took place in Isolo Community, Akure, leading to the successful vaccination of all eligible girls in the area.
Key Stakeholders Advocate for HPV Education and Vaccination
The flag off event featured key stakeholders, including Dr. Adefesoye Victor, Director of Disease Control and Immunization at OSPHCDA. He emphasized that girls aged 9-14 should take advantage of this free HPV vaccine to protect against cervical cancer.
Highlighting the campaign’s significance, Bamigboye Folashade, Executive Director of K&TRC, stated:
“When we save a girl child, we are saving a generation. On this IWD, we urge all women to secure their daughters’ future by protecting them from cervical cancer.”
To support their efforts, Girl Effect provided Champions with branded bags, vests, and caps, ensuring they are well-equipped to educate their communities.
Strengthening Community Engagement
Prominent health leaders, including Dr. Ogunmakinwa Florence (State Community-Based Health Worker Coordinator) and Fadiji Florence (State Immunization Officer), encouraged Champions to drive awareness and increase vaccine uptake.
The event also included market sensitization efforts in Isolo Community, led by Mrs. Afolabi Titilayo, Deputy Director of Health Education, and an efficient immunization session managed by Mrs. Saka Olubunmi, Isolo Ward Focal Person. Parents and girls turned out in large numbers to support the campaign.
Addressing HPV Vaccine Concerns
To dispels misconceptions, K&TRC Program Officer, Mercy Roland Bamigboye, clarified that the current HPV vaccine is a one-time dose, with a possible booster in the future. She reassured parents of its safety and effectiveness.
Additionally, Mrs. Fadiji Florence confirmed that the HPV vaccine, introduced on January 1, 2025, is available for free to girls aged 9-14. She also urged women to undergo regular cervical cancer screenings instead of waiting for symptoms.
Next Steps
Mr. Idris Suleiman, a representative from Girl Effect, encouraged Champions to keep educating families and boosting vaccine uptake in their communities.
Starting Monday, community and school engagement sessions will kick off, with each Champion conducting four sessions in areas with low vaccine uptake over the next few months.
Why HPV Education and Vaccination Matter
Cervical cancer is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women—yet it is highly preventable. This initiative plays a crucial role in protecting young girls, reducing HPV-related risks, and creating a healthier future for Nigerian women.
The partnership between Girl Effect and Kids & Teens Resource Centre on this International Women’s Day is more than just a campaign—it’s a movement to protect, educate, and empower generations of young women.
Read more about how we trained teachers to use the Champions’ App here.
