The Kano State Primary Health Care Management Board (KSPHCMB), in collaboration with the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA) and with the support of PATH, has commenced a two-day workshop at Babale Suites, Kano, focused on identifying out-of-school girls for the upcoming Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign.
The workshop is designed to ensure that every eligible girl child between the ages of 9 and 14 years in Kano State is reached and protected against cervical cancer.
While the majority of girls within this age bracket can be found in schools, the Board acknowledges the challenge of reaching those outside the school system and in remote rural communities.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Habib Tijjani, Director of Disease Control and Epidemiology, emphasized the importance of the initiative
“Our target is to leave no girl behind. Cervical cancer is preventable, and this vaccination provides a lifetime opportunity to protect our daughters and secure their future health. Whether in school, at home, or in hard-to-reach areas, every eligible girl must be identified and vaccinated.”
Dr. Muhammad Bashir Alhasan, the State Focal Person for HPV vaccination, added that from 2025 onward, HPV vaccination will be integrated into the routine immunization schedule in Kano State.
This means every girl who turns 9 years will automatically receive the HPV vaccine as part of standard preventive health services.
The HPV vaccine is globally recognized as a proven safeguard measure against cervical cancer, which is one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths among women.
By expanding access to both in-school and out-of-school girls, Kano State is setting a strong precedent in advancing women’s health and protecting future generations.
The Kano State Government calls on parents, guardians, community leaders, and partners to support this campaign by ensuring that every girl within the target age group is reached, protected, and given the opportunity to live free from the burden of cervical cancer.
Signed:
Sa’adatu Suleiman
Public Relations Officer
Kano State Primary Health Care Management Board
04/09/2025
