By Gabriella Ogbu

Niger State has successfully vaccinated 444,658 girls against the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) as part of a health campaign aimed at reducing the risk of cervical cancer.

Although the state set a target to immunize over 500,000 girls, particularly those aged 9 to 14, the campaign has made significant strides in protecting the health of young females across the region.

Daniel Jiya, the Director of Food and Drugs and Project Manager of the State Emergency Routine Immunization Coordination Centre (SERICC), confirmed that Niger State is now ranked third in Nigeria’s nationwide HPV vaccination initiative.

This is a major achievement in the fight against cervical cancer, which claims approximately 8,000 lives annually in Nigeria.

The HPV vaccine, which is safe and effective, has proven to be a crucial tool in preventing cervical cancer.

The state’s efforts are part of a broader national push to reduce these deaths and protect the health of young girls across the country.

“We are proud of the progress we have made in Niger State,” Jiya stated. “Our goal is to provide every eligible girl with the protection they need against HPV and, in turn, reduce the risk of cervical cancer for future generations.”

The vaccination campaign is seen as a key component of Niger State’s public health strategy, and officials have emphasized the importance of continuing this effort to ensure the safety and well-being of girls in the region.

The state’s ongoing commitment to the cause is expected to yield long-term benefits for public health, as it joins the fight to eliminate cervical cancer in Nigeria.

By Gabriella Ogbu

Cholera outbreak across three Local Government Areas (LGAs) in Sokoto State has claimed at least 25 lives, with 1,160 individuals affected statewide.

The alarming statistics were disclosed on Monday by the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Asabe Balarabe, during a press briefing.

Dr. Balarabe confirmed that 15 active cases, identified in Sokoto North, Silame, and Kware LGAs, have been laboratory-tested and are currently under management.

“Out of the 1,160 people affected, 25 have succumbed to the disease,” she said, emphasizing ongoing efforts to prevent further spread.

In response to the outbreak, the state government has begun distributing free medical supplies to 18 LGAs. Rescue teams are working closely with authorities to contain the spread and provide timely treatment to affected communities.

Dr. Balarabe commended the proactive response of women, especially pregnant women, who have sought medical care at local health facilities.

However, she acknowledged persistent challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, power outages, and a lack of basic amenities like water in public health institutions.

She expressed optimism about reforms under Governor Ahmad Aliyu’s leadership, noting that the governor recently approved the recruitment of 864 nurses and midwives to address staff shortages.

Plans are underway to hire additional personnel to replace retired or deceased workers.

Reports from the affected areas reveal that communities in Bazza and Gidadawa, within Sokoto Metropolis, are experiencing severe cholera and diarrhea cases.

Some victims have died, while others are receiving treatment at Primary Health Centres in Bazza and Kofar Rini clinics, both in Waziri B Ward of Sokoto North LGA.

Dr. Balarabe reiterated the government’s commitment to revitalizing the healthcare sector and ensuring prompt intervention to combat the outbreak.

Measles cases globally increased by 20 per cent to over 10.3 million cases in 2023, compared to nine million cases recorded in 2022.