Nigeria introduces HPV to protect 7.7 million girls in the country

On 24 October 2023, Nigeria officially introduced the human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine into its routine immunization schedule in a bid to protect at least 7.7 million girls aged 9–14 years across the country. The launch in the capital city of Abuja was attended by top government officials from the Ministries of Health, Education, and Budget & Planning, as well as the First Lady of Nigeria and religious leaders, including the Sultan of Sokoto and the President of Christian Association of Nigeria.  

The first phase of introduction was rolled out in 16 states and the Federal Capital Territory. As part of Phase 1, adolescent girls were vaccinated during a five-day campaign held at health facilities, schools, community outreaches, and special sessions in the marketplace and farming areas to reach those who are out of school. As of mid-November 2023, almost half of the target audience had been vaccinated. Overall, HPV vaccination acceptance was good. The second phase of the vaccination introduction is set to start in May 2024 in 21 states.

In Nigeria, cervical cancer is the third most common cancer and the second most frequent cause of cancer deaths among women aged between 15 and 44 years. In 2020 – the latest year for which data is available – the country recorded 12 000 new cases and 8000 deaths from cervical cancer. One single dose of the vaccine is necessary, and it is highly efficacious in preventing infection with HPV types 16 and 18 that are known to cause at least 70% of cervical cancers. 

Countries in AFRO Region including Burkina Faso, Côte d’Ivoire, Cameroon, Gambia, Kenya, Liberia, Malawi, Niger, Rwanda, Sierra Leon Zambia have already introduced the HPV vaccine. Togo is preparing to do so next. 

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Authors: 

Hilaire DADJO, Communications Officer, WHO/IST West Africa – email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  |José BIEY, New Vaccines/Routine Immunization Officer, WHO/IST West Africa – email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.  
Pamela MITULA, New Vaccines/Routine Immunization Officer, WHO/IST West Africa – email This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Photos: 

1) A Nigerian girl receiving a shot - Photo credit: UNICEF Nigeria
2) A Nigeria adolescent now protected against cervical cancer- Photo credit: UNICEF Nigeria