Health advocates have raised urgent alarms over Nasarawa State’s dangerously low HPV vaccination rates, with Lafia—the state capital—recording a shocking 33 vaccinations in the past year, the worst performance statewide.
At a media training session organized by Community Link for Health and Family Health Advocacy (CLHFPA) and Pathfinder International, experts revealed that persistent myths and misinformation are derailing efforts to protect girls from cervical cancer, the second deadliest cancer among Nigerian women.
Key Revelations:
- Lafia in Last Place: Only 2,158 girls vaccinated statewide, with Lafia LG scoring the lowest (33 recipients).
Myths vs. Science: False claims about infertility and side effects are suppressing uptake—despite global proof of the vaccine’s safety
- Media Mobilization Needed: Journalists challenged to lead the fight against misinformation and save lives through accurate reporting.
“This vaccine prevents cancer—yet fear is winning over facts,” said Mrs. Mary Ashenanye, CLHFPA Chairperson. State Health Educator Ishaya Amegwa called the numbers “unacceptable,” while veteran journalist Shimataver Aondoakaa urged reporters to “shift narratives and drive demand.”
Why It Matters: Without intervention, Nasarawa risks a future surge in preventable cervical cancer deaths.
Engaging Alternatives for Headline:
“33 Vaccinations in Lafia: How Myths Are Fueling Nasarawa’s Cervical Cancer Time Bomb”
“From Misinformation to Tragedy: Nasarawa’s HPV Vaccine Crisis Exposed”
“Lafia’s Shameful Record: Only 33 Girls Protected as HPV Myths Trump Science”
“Cancer Prevention vs. Culture: Nasarawa’s HPV Vaccine Battle Reaches Breaking Point”
“Journalists, Step Up! Media Training Exposes Nasarawa’s HPV Vaccination Catastrophe”
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