Nasarawa Begins HPV Screening, Urges Parents to Vaccinate Girls Early
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
NASARAWA, Nigeria – The Nasarawa State Primary Health Care Development Agency, partnering with Pathfinder International, has launched HPV screening for 100 women in Kwandare while urging parents to vaccinate girls aged 9–14 to prevent cervical cancer.
Executive Secretary, Dr Iskilu Saleh says HPV remains a major cause of premature deaths among Nigerian women. “This vaccination is a life-saving opportunity,” he says. “It protects our girls now and in the future.”
He assures residents that the vaccine is safe and available in health centres across the state. The screening forms part of activities marking the 2025 World Cervical Cancer Day.
Programme Coordinator Fatima Maha says the initiative supports nationwide efforts to eliminate cervical cancer. She adds that more girls, especially those newly turning nine, will be vaccinated.
State Health Commissioner Dr Gaza Gwamna, represented by Dr John Damina, stresses that 90% coverage is only achievable with strong parental support. “We need parents’ full cooperation,” he says.
Nasarawa First Lady Silifat Abdullahi-Sule urges mothers to protect their daughters. “Cervical cancer can be prevented if eligible girls receive the HPV vaccine,” she says.
Traditional ruler Ahmadu Almakura, the Sangarin Kwandare, also calls on women to prioritise vaccination.
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