Pathfinder International has disclosed that no fewer than 70,000 nine-year-old girls across Ogun State have received the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine as part of efforts to prevent cervical cancer in the future.
The State Coordinator of Pathfinder International, Mr. Udeme Emah, made this known during a symposium held in Abeokuta to mark the 2026 World Cancer Day in the South-West region. The event, themed “United By Unique,” was jointly organised by Pathfinder International, the Nigeria Cancer Society, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, and other non-governmental organisations at the Telemedicine Hall of the Federal Medical Centre, Abeokuta.
Emah explained that the HPV vaccination programme is aimed at protecting young girls from cervical cancer later in life, dismissing widespread misinformation suggesting that the vaccine affects fertility or is a population control strategy.
He expressed concern that false narratives circulating on social media have discouraged some parents from allowing their daughters to be vaccinated.
“The HPV vaccine is safe and effective. It protects girls from cervical cancer and does not in any way affect fertility. We urge parents to ignore misinformation and allow their daughters to benefit from this life-saving intervention,” he said.
He added that Pathfinder International is collaborating with the Ogun State Primary Health Care Development Board, FAHIO and other partners to promote awareness through a network of trained advocates known as HPV Champions. According to him, these champions engage communities, conduct outreaches and advocate for improved vaccine uptake.
Emah reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to evidence-based interventions in partnership with the Nigeria Cancer Society, stressing the goal of building a cancer-aware society where prevention and early detection save lives.
Meanwhile, a Professor of Radiation Oncology at the University of Ibadan, Prof. Adeniyi Abidemi Adenipekun, raised concerns over the high mortality rate linked to cancer in Nigeria. He disclosed that over 120,000 cancer cases are recorded annually in the country, with more than 70,000 resulting in deaths.
Delivering a keynote lecture titled “Advancing Inclusive, Patient-Centred Care in Nigeria,” Adenipekun identified late diagnosis, limited diagnostic facilities, inadequate treatment centres, stigma and reliance on alternative care as major contributors to the high fatality rate.
He called for the establishment of well-equipped cancer treatment centres at regional and state levels, with functional extensions to primary healthcare facilities to improve access, particularly for rural populations.
The oncologist also emphasised the need for comprehensive cancer control policies to encourage investment in diagnostic and treatment infrastructure. He listed warning signs of cancer to include unusual swellings, persistent cough that does not respond to treatment, unexplained weight loss and prolonged discomfort, urging individuals to seek early medical evaluation.
Adenipekun further advocated a patient-centred approach to cancer management, stressing that patients should be actively involved in treatment decisions, with proper documentation for medical records. He noted that shared decision-making improves treatment outcomes and reduces mortality.
He also encouraged advocacy groups to involve cancer survivors, particularly breast cancer survivors, in awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and promote early screening.
In her remarks, Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, reiterated the state government’s commitment to combating cancer. She noted that the administration of Governor Dapo Abiodun has integrated cancer screening and treatment into the State Health Insurance Scheme to improve access to care.
Similarly, the Ogun State Chairman of the Nigeria Cancer Society, Dr. Ololade Kehinde, represented by the Vice Chairman, Dr. Fatima Adefunke Dauda, called on governments, teaching hospitals, professional bodies, civil society groups, the media and development partners to strengthen collaboration in advancing early detection, timely treatment, palliative care and evidence-based cancer policies.
“Cancer control is a shared responsibility. Together, we can reduce preventable cancer deaths and improve the quality of life for those living with cancer,” she said.
The symposium formed part of broader efforts to raise awareness, dispel myths and strengthen coordinated responses to cancer prevention and treatment in Nigeria.