Nkechinyere Ewa
The First Lady of Ebonyi State, Mrs. Mary-Maudline Uzoamaka Nwifuru, has called on families across the state to take advantage of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine as a critical step toward eliminating cervical cancer.
Speaking during an interactive session at her office in Centenary City, Abakaliki, Mrs. Nwifuru described cervical cancer as a silent but deadly disease that continues to claim the lives of women despite the availability of preventive vaccines.
According to her, vaccination against HPV identified as the major cause of cervical cancer offers a reliable shield against the disease, particularly when administered early. “No woman should lose her life to a disease that can be prevented. The HPV vaccine gives us the chance to protect our girls today and secure their future health,” she said.
The First Lady encouraged parents and caregivers to ensure that girls within the recommended age bracket are vaccinated, stressing that early intervention remains the most effective defence against cervical cancer.
She further urged community and religious leaders, health professionals, and media organisations to strengthen public enlightenment efforts, noting that misinformation and fear have continued to limit vaccine uptake in some communities.
Mrs. Nwifuru reaffirmed that her pet project, the Better Health for Rural Women, Children and Internally Displaced Persons Foundation (BERWO), will sustain its collaboration with government agencies and health partners to deepen healthcare outreach, especially in rural areas.
She emphasised that protecting women’s health is central to building strong families and a productive society, adding that widespread acceptance of the HPV vaccine would significantly reduce cancer-related deaths in the state.
The advocacy forms part of Ebonyi State’s ongoing efforts to improve public health and promote preventive care through vaccination and community engagement.