Sydani Group calls for collaboration to boost HPV vaccine acceptance in Nigeria, aiming to eliminate cervical cancer through routine immunisation.

Sydani Group has urged collaboration between the government and stakeholders to boost acceptance of the HPV vaccine in Nigeria to eliminate cervical cancer.

Management consulting firm Sydani Group has called for increased collaboration between the government and stakeholders to foster widespread acceptance of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine in Nigeria, aiming to eliminate cervical cancer.

Also read: Nigerian manufacturers capable of producing vaccines, Tinubu tells GAVI

In a press statement signed by Project Lead Grace Erekosima, Sydani Group stressed the need to intensify efforts to combat cervical cancer, which is the second leading cause of cancer deaths among women aged 15 to 44 in Nigeria.

Citing United Nations data, the group noted that Nigeria recorded 12,000 new cases and 8,000 deaths from cervical cancer in 2020 alone.

Vaccination against HPV, along with screening and treatment of pre-cancerous lesions, are cost-effective measures to prevent the disease.

The Federal Government of Nigeria, through the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), has integrated the HPV vaccine into the country’s routine immunisation programme.

The first phase, launched in October 2023, aimed to vaccinate over seven million girls aged 9 to 14 across 16 states. The second phase, which began in May 2024, extended coverage to 20 more states.

Sydani Group emphasised the role of stakeholders, including traditional leaders and educational organisations, in advocating for the vaccine rollout.

It urged continued collaboration to address misconceptions and boost acceptance, ensuring that Nigeria makes significant progress toward eliminating cervical cancer and improving public health outcomes.

Governor Dapo Abiodun announced grants for 236 Primary Health Centres in Ogun State, aiming to meet WHO standards and enhance healthcare delivery.

Governor Dapo Abiodun announced plans to disburse grants to 236 Primary Health Centres in Ogun State to meet WHO standards.

Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun announced on Tuesday that his administration will soon disburse grants and facilities to the state’s 236 Primary Health Centres (PHCs).

Also read: Ogun community laments lack of health centre

This initiative aims to ensure that the centres meet the requirements of the World Health Organisation (WHO).

Governor Abiodun made this statement during a visit from the executive members of the National Association of Resident Doctors (NARD) in Abeokuta, where they gathered for their 44th annual general meeting and scientific conference.

He stated, “We have grants and facilities from multilateral organisations that we are going to begin to expend very soon.”

In addition to the grants for PHCs, Abiodun assured that his administration would continue investing in secondary and tertiary healthcare institutions. He highlighted efforts to enhance human capital development, including the training of doctors.

Abiodun mentioned that about 100 PHCs have been renovated and equipped with solar energy, digital communication tools, and digital record-keeping systems for patient management.

He also confirmed that the hazard allowances for doctors in the state have been consistently paid, along with approved payments for clinical duty allowances and accouterments.

The governor encouraged the association to continue meeting, sharing knowledge, and devising strategies to improve healthcare delivery.

“When you come up with these resolutions, those of us in government would like for you to forward them to us so we can give you the needed support,” he said.

Dr. Dele Abdulahi, the outgoing National President of NARD, raised concerns about the migration of doctors, both internationally and between states.

He urged Governor Abiodun to assist in curbing inter-state migration through the introduction of car and housing loans.

He expressed gratitude for the governor’s contributions to the health sector while highlighting the challenges doctors face in Nigeria.

Maiduguri faces severe flooding, with 414,000 displaced and 30 dead after the Alau Dam overflowed. The Nigerian government and state authorities are mobilizing relief efforts.

Maiduguri, the capital of Borno State, is grappling with devastating flooding, resulting in the displacement of approximately 414,000 people and at least 30 fatalities.

The flood, triggered by the overflow of the Alau Dam following heavy rains, is reported to be the worst in 30 years, according to the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA).

Also read: Residents stranded as flood washes away Oyo bridge

The flood has wreaked havoc across the city, submerging about 70% of Maiduguri, including key locations such as the Shehu of Borno’s palace, state secretariat, post office, and the University of Maiduguri Teaching Hospital.

Significant damage has also been reported at the Sanda Kyarimi Park zoo, where 80% of animals perished.

In response to the disaster, President Bola Tinubu has called for immediate evacuation of flood-affected areas, while Vice President Kashim Shettima has arrived in Maiduguri for an on-the-ground assessment.

The Federal Government has allocated N3 billion for relief and rehabilitation efforts, focusing on providing food, essential supplies, and long-term support.

Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State has reported that over a third of Maiduguri is flooded, affecting more than one million people. The state government is distributing cash and food to displaced persons and is conducting search and rescue operations.

Inmates who escaped from the Maiduguri correctional facility due to flood damage are being pursued, with three recaptured so far. The Nigeria Correctional Service is actively assessing the situation.

Residents affected by the floods, including those sleeping on roads, have expressed mixed feelings about the relief efforts and the conditions in IDP camps. Reports indicate that water levels are receding in some areas, bringing hope for recovery.

The floods have also impacted other regions, including Yenagoa in Bayelsa State, where neighborhoods are submerged, and the Benue State government is addressing snake bite incidents in IDP camps.

Vice President Shettima highlighted the Federal Government’s commitment to collaborating with all states to address flooding and other natural disasters, underscoring the approval of N3 billion for each state to tackle these challenges.