The International Papillomavirus Society (IPVS) Nigeria Chapter has called on stakeholders in the health sector to commit to eliminating cervical cancer.
The President of IPVS Nigeria Chapter, Prof. Mohammed Manga, made this appeal at the 2025 International Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Awareness Day, which also marked the launch of the Nigerian chapter of the society.
The theme for the 2025 IPVS Awareness Day is “Exploration and Interventions on Gaps Leading to Cervical Cancer Elimination in Nigeria and the 90:70:90; 2030 Target.”
Manga stressed the need for stakeholders in Nigeria to unite and intensify efforts to tackle the numerous challenges facing global health.
The President, who is one of three IPVS ambassadors from Nigeria, noted that the country had made progress with the introduction of the HPV vaccine in October 2023.
He emphasised the need for further action.
“We already have the tool, which puts us a step ahead, so why don’t we all come together and push forward? That way, the world will have one less concern.
“That is the essence of this programme’s theme. We have made progress in the past three years. Cervical cancer is one of the diseases that can now be prevented, treated, and cured, if we all, including the government, remain committed.”
He urged the government to ensure that all eligible girls receive the vaccine and that everyone in need of treatment has access to it.
Manga also noted the importance of prioritising cancer screening, stating that such efforts would significantly reduce cervical cancer infections.
He added that regular awareness campaigns would help dispel misinformation surrounding the HPV vaccine.
The Vice President of IPVS Nigeria Chapter, Dr Maureen Umeakuawul, stressed the need for increased awareness of HPV to prevent its further spread.
“This is the time to raise awareness. Talk to people about HPV and its infection. Explain the importance of vaccination. Let them know that we can collectively fight this disease.
“We can eliminate HPV together, that is our main goal. We need everyone on board: stakeholders, political leaders, and governments. When we unite, we can control this infection,” she said.
The Co-President of IPVS, Prof Marc Steben commended Nigeria’s progress in its vaccination campaign, and urged greater efforts to promote screening.
He acknowledged that screening is more complex and costly but emphasised that intensified campaigns would be essential for eliminating cervical cancer.
“Eliminating cervical cancer in Nigeria is possible. We have the science, we have the tools, we have the World Health Organisation (WHO) objectives, what we need now is commitment,” Steben stressed.
NAN
