In a move to safe guard the health of teenage girls, the Delta State Government has launched a one-week Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination programme, led by the First Lady, Mrs Tobore Oborevwori.
The initiative, which targets female children between the ages of 9 and 14, and flagged off on Monday, saw Mrs Oborevwori at the forefront, emphasising the importance of preventive healthcare measures for the state's youth. Speaking at the Cenotaph in Asaba during the 2024 Children’s Day celebration, she elaborated on the significance of the vaccination drive in enhancing the total well-being of Nigerian children.
Acknowledging the pivotal role of the Delta State Government, led by her husband, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, Mrs Oborevwori expressed gratitude for the support extended to the initiative. She emphasised that the vaccination drive aligns with the government's ‘MORE' Agenda for the state, which prioritises the health and welfare of the citizens.
“This year’s celebration allows us to address the total well-being of the Nigerian child: Their physical growth, quality education, and moral standing, which are worthy investments in the future of our children,” she stated.
The vaccination campaign, coordinated by the state's Immunisation Officer, Dr Ogochukwu Ogbechei, aims to protect against genital warts and cervical cancer, diseases caused by HPV infection. Ogbechei highlighted the importance of early immunisation, stating that it offers long-term protection against these potentially life-threatening illnesses.
“The vaccination, targeted at girls between the ages of 9 and 14, will run till 31 May, with an additional two days of mop-up,” he announced. He emphasized the comprehensive nature of the programme, which will operate simultaneously across all 25 local government areas of Delta State.
The initiative has received widespread support from various stakeholders, including the international community, the Nigerian government, and developmental partners. Mrs Oborevwori, also the founder of the ‘You Matter Charity Foundation' and the state’s Immunisation Champion, urged parents and guardians to take advantage of the opportunity to protect their daughters' health.
