The fight against cervical Cancer in Nigeria is gaining momentum with the introduction of the Cervical Cancer Elimination Service Award (CCESA). Aligned with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) global goal of reducing cervical cancer cases to fewer than four per 100,000 women by 2100, this initiative seeks to honour individuals and organisations making remarkable contributions to cervical cancer prevention and control. Set to debut at the Stakeholders’ Summit on Cervical Cancer Elimination in Nigeria (SSCCEN) in Abuja, the CCESA demonstrates Nigeria’s commitment to tackling this preventable disease.
This year’s SSCCEN will introduce a virtual cervical cancer elimination dashboard designed to track progress across Nigeria in real time. By providing insights into the country’s advancements, the dashboard aims to enhance visibility and accountability as Nigeria works towards its elimination targets. Dr. Ishak Lawal, Executive Director of the End Cervical Cancer Nigeria Initiative (ECCNI), is confident that initiatives like the CCESA will drive the prioritisation of cervical cancer prevention, enhance outcomes, and encourage stakeholders to intensify efforts. He stresses that collaboration and Innovation are crucial to realising a cervical cancer-free Nigeria, even in the face of resource constraints.
Pioneers will be honoured for effort in cervical cancer elimination.
Furthermore, the inaugural CCESA will highlight individuals who have made significant contributions to advancing cervical cancer elimination efforts in Nigeria. Among those being honored are Dr. Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu, celebrated for her tireless advocacy for health on a global scale, and UNICEF Nigeria for organising the country’s first independent cervical cancer summit. Dr. Ramatu Hassan will be recognised for leading the creation of Nigeria’s initial strategic plan for cervical cancer prevention. Also being acknowledged are Senator Ibrahim Oloriegbe and Hon. Yusuf Tanko Sununu for their role in initiating the Cancer Health Fund during the ninth national assembly. These recognitions illustrate the cooperative efforts essential to addressing Public Health challenges.
Other prominent honourees include Dr. Faisal Shuaib, credited with incorporating HPV vaccine into Nigeria’s Expanded Programme on Immunisation, and Alhaji Mohammed Alkali, CEO of the North-East Development Commission, who supported regional initiatives for cervical cancer elimination. Dr. Ishak Lawal emphasised that the CCESA is not merely a recognition programme; it serves as a rallying call for all stakeholders to take actionable steps. He emphasised the importance of long-term strategies in cervical cancer prevention, expanding access to life-saving services, and scaling up proven interventions. Dr. Lawal remains firm in his belief that achieving the World Health Organization’s cervical cancer elimination goals will require sustained collaboration. Only through these collective efforts can Nigeria make meaningful progress, ensuring that women no longer fall victim to a preventable disease.
Nigeria’s path to achieving WHO’s elimination targets.
As part of broader global initiatives , the World Health Organization has set ambitious global targets for cervical cancer elimination: 70% screening coverage for women at ages 35 and 45, 90% HPV vaccination coverage for adolescent girls, and 90% treatment for cervical lesions. While Nigeria faces a high incidence of cervical cancer, with thousands of new cases and deaths annually, countries like Rwanda have demonstrated the impact of effective policies and community-driven interventions. Notably, Rwanda became the first African nation to implement a national HPV vaccination program in 2011, achieving impressive vaccination coverage rates. This success underscores the potential for significant progress when national initiatives are consistently executed.
Building on these global benchmarks, Nigeria is taking bold steps to align its national initiatives with WHO’s targets. Efforts such as expanding HPV vaccination coverage, scaling up cervical cancer screening programs, and improving access to treatment for cervical lesions are at the forefront. The introduction of a virtual dashboard to track progress and the establishment of the CCESA proves the country’s commitment to adopting innovative and data-driven approaches. These initiatives aim to foster collaboration among stakeholders, inspire healthy competition, and ensure accountability. With sustained dedication and strategic action, Nigeria has the potential not only to meet WHO’s goals but also to become a regional leader in the fight against cervical cancer.
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Altogether, the launch of the CCESA marks an important moment in Nigeria’s commitment to cervical cancer elimination. By celebrating excellence, fostering collaboration, and ensuring accountability, this initiative sets a high bar for global health efforts. It is a testament to the nation’s resolve to make a tangible difference in the fight against cervical cancer, inspiring stakeholders to contribute more effectively. With sustained dedication from all parties involved, Nigeria can turn the tide against cervical cancer, ensuring no woman succumbs to a preventable disease. This year’s SSCCEN and the CCESA honour a shared vision of a healthier, cancer-free future for all Nigerian women, where the disease is no longer a threat to women’s health and well-being.