By Prosper Mene
Nigeria has achieved a significant milestone in its fight against cervical cancer, with over 12 million girls aged 9 to 13 vaccinated against the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) in just nine months, according to First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu. This remarkable progress is part of the Federal Government’s efforts to eliminate cervical cancer by 2030, aligning with the World Health Organization’s 90-70-90 targets.
Speaking at the launch of the Partnership to Eliminate Cervical Cancer in Nigeria (PECCIN) on June 3, 2025, Senator Tinubu emphasized that cervical cancer is preventable and treatable when detected early. “No woman has to die from cervical cancer when it is preventable,” she stated, highlighting the critical role of the HPV vaccine, which has been available free of charge for girls aged 9 to 14 since October 2024.
The PECCIN initiative, led by the National Task Force on Cervical Cancer Elimination (NTF-CCE), aims to vaccinate 90% of eligible girls, screen 70% of women for precancerous lesions, and ensure 90% of those diagnosed receive timely treatment. The First Lady’s advocacy, backed by her Renewed Hope Initiative, has been instrumental in driving the program’s success, with a N1 billion donation to the National Cancer Fund earlier this year.
Dr. Iziaq Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, praised Senator Tinubu’s leadership, noting that her support has enabled the vaccination of 12 million girls since the HPV vaccine was integrated into Nigeria’s routine immunization program. The government’s “Double 8 Agenda” targets vaccinating and screening 8 million girls and women annually, a goal experts believe is achievable with sustained efforts.
Prof. Isaac Adewole, Chairman of the NTF-CCE, expressed optimism about meeting the 2030 elimination target, crediting the First Lady’s “uncommon political will” for galvanizing the campaign. The initiative plans to expand its reach to 12 states this year and another 12 in 2026.
Cervical cancer remains the second most common cancer among women in Nigeria, but with early detection, vaccination, and treatment, the country is on track to significantly reduce its burden. Senator Tinubu urged women to seek medical help without fear or stigma, reinforcing that “every child and woman has a right to live.”
The PECCIN campaign, supported by partners like GAVI, the Gates Foundation, WHO, and UNICEF, marks a hopeful step toward a healthier future for Nigerian women and girls.
