By Aderogba George
The International Papillomavirus Society (IPVS) Nigeria Chapter has urged continuous awareness, research, and interventions to combat cervical cancer and other HPV-related diseases in the country.
Prof. Mohammed Manga, President of IPVS Nigeria, made the call at the 2026 International HPV Awareness Day (IHAD) in Abuja.
The event had the theme “Transdisciplinary Papillomavirus Research in Nigeria: Setting up an Agenda.”
“It is essential to involve every profession in prevention, control, and meaningful research. Nigeria has achieved milestones in combating cervical cancer through government support and strengthened institutions,” Manga said.
He noted challenges remain, including low HPV vaccine uptake, weak screening systems, and insufficient treatment and palliative care, but emphasised a promising future through collaborative efforts.
Manga explained the event’s theme reflects HPV’s transdisciplinary nature. “No single profession or individual can solve the problem. We must include healthcare workers, non-health professionals, patients, and caregivers.”
Dr Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, Chairman of the occasion and Founder of Medicaid Cancer Foundation, said organisations follow WHO guidelines on vaccination, prevention, and screening to combat cervical cancer.
She stressed the fight is challenging but achievable.
“HPV can be eliminated. Awareness, advocacy, mobilisation of funds, and training healthcare professionals remain critical to success,” Shinkafi-Bagudu said.
Shinkafi-Bagudu highlighted that HPV affects both men and women.
“Men are carriers too. Many still think it’s only a women’s problem, but awareness is key to control,” she said.
She also called for more research and funding, noting that innovations exist but remain inaccessible due to limited awareness and understanding among the public.
Dr Maureen Umeakuewulu, LOC Chairman and Vice President of IPVS Nigeria, thanked partners for support and collaboration.
“This is a call to action to prevent HPV infection at its root,” she said.
Keynote speaker Prof. Imran Morhason-Bello, noted that sexual behaviour drives HPV infection and highlighted gaps in Nigeria’s research quality and reach.
“Stigma affects women, but all groups are vulnerable,” he said.
He called for more studies to answer critical questions and improve understanding, outlining a transdisciplinary research methodology to address HPV-related challenges effectively.
The event attracted stakeholders from the health sector nationwide, including representatives from the FCT, reflecting a unified commitment to HPV prevention, research, and public education. (NAN)
