Cervical Cancer Elimination Summit: Katsina First Lady advocates for proactive health measures (Pictures)
The 2nd Stakeholders’ Summit on Cervical Cancer Elimination in Nigeria (SSCCEN) commenced today at Chida Hotel, Jabi, Abuja, with a remarkable highlight—the launch of the Cervical Cancer Elimination Service Award (CCESA). This milestone event is part of Nigeria’s commitment to eradicating cervical cancer, guided by the theme: “Strengthening Collaboration Towards Achieving Cervical Cancer Elimination Targets in Nigeria.”
Declaring the summit open, Hajiya Fatima Dikko Radda, First Lady of Katsina State, the special guest of honour delivered a passionate speech underscoring the importance of shared responsibility and proactive health measures.
“We have officially launched the cervical cancer vaccine in Katsina State, with my daughter being the first to take the official uptake,” she revealed, setting an inspiring example of leadership.
She urged all Nigerians to support the initiative, stating, “For cervical cancer elimination in Nigeria, let us share our expertise, experience, and ideas to develop effective strategies. My fellow women, let us take ownership of our health and the health of our loved ones. Educate yourselves, your families, and your communities about cervical cancer prevention and support.”
The First Lady commended the summit’s organisers, saying, “I applaud the efforts of the local organising committee. Together, we can make a difference, promote a healthy future for all Nigerian women and girls, and eliminate cervical cancer.”
The inaugural CCESA recognised outstanding individuals and organisations driving progress in cervical cancer elimination, including:
Her Excellency (Dr.) Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu, honoured as the Global Cervical Cancer Elimination Ambassador.
Dr. Ramatu Hassan, for her work on Nigeria’s first cervical cancer strategic plan.
Senator (Dr.) Ibrahim Oloriegbe and Hon. (Dr.) Yusuf Tanko Sununu, for their legislative advocacy.
Dr. Faisal Shuaib, for introducing the HPV vaccine into Nigeria’s immunisation programme.
Alhaji Mohammed Alkali, for his contributions through the North-East Development Commission.
UNICEF Nigeria, for its leadership in organising cervical cancer-focused summits.
As Nigeria aligns with the WHO’s targets for cervical cancer elimination—90% HPV vaccination, 70% screening, and 90% treatment coverage—the summit provided a platform for collaboration and innovation. The launch of a virtual Cervical Cancer Elimination Dashboard added momentum, offering real-time tracking of progress.
Dr. Ishak Lawal, Executive Director of the End Cervical Cancer Nigeria Initiative (ECCNI), stressed the need for partnerships. “By pooling resources and knowledge, we can achieve our goals faster,” he said.
The CCESA will be an annual feature of SSCCEN, expanding to recognise high-performing states and local governments.
See pictures below:
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