By Kemi Olatunde

Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa has launched the ‘Oya Campaign’ to increase the update of the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine and also promote good nutrition among adolescent girls in the state.

While flagging off the campaign which was put in place by Girl Effect in partnership with the Ondo State Primary Health Care Development Agency (OSPHCDA) in Akure on Wednesday, he noted that the campaign aligns with his administration’s “OUR EASE” developmental agenda under “Efficient Health Care and Socio-economic Welfare”noting that it is also an affirmation of government commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of young population in the state.

He explained that he flagged off the HPV vaccination campaign on May 27, 2024 which he said achieved 94 percent coverage in August 2024 based on the state’s target, with 321,008 girls, aged 9 to 14 years, successfully vaccinated.

Aiyedatiwa stated that the launch of the Oya Campaign marks a new phase in his efforts in enhancing the gains made , noting that “By integrating nutrition education into this campaign, we aim at providing our girls with comprehensive health knowledge that will serve them throughout their lives.”

He called on all to participate in the campaign saying “Let us work together to ensure that every eligible girl receives the HPV vaccine and educated on the importance of good nutrition.”

He commended Girl Effect, for championing the cause of the campaign calling on all to pledge their support for the Campaign.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Women Affairs, Dr. Seun Osamaye affirmed government commitment in ensuring that girls have access to health services that will enable them fulfill their dreams, assuring of the Ministry ‘support for the group.

Representative of the Head of Service, Mrs Olubamirola Mike-Daudu called on the group to extend the gesture to girls in rural areas.

In his welcome address, representative of the Permanent Secretary, Ondo State Primary Health Care Development Agency, Dr. Victor Adefesoye noted that Cervical Cancer can be prevented with the HPV vaccine noting that the uptake of the vaccine in the state has been encouraging.

In her welcome remark, Country Director, Girl Effect, Boladale Akin-Kolapo described the OYA Campaign in the state as one boom out of urgency, hope, and unwavering commitment to the security of health and future of girls.

According to her, the campaign which she said is supported by Gavi, the Vaccine Alliance, and implemented in collaboration with the Ondo State Primary Health Care Development Agency, is designed to increase awareness, drive demand, and support the uptake of the HPV vaccine among girls aged 9-14 adding that “at the same time, we are integrating nutrition education to promote holistic adolescent well-being.”

She described the word “OYA” as a call to action noting that it is a call to all to act now saying “there is no health without girl’s health.”

She expressed appreciation to the Government of the State for the warm reception and collaboration in making the launch a reality stating that the Governor’s leadership in championing adolescent health and HPV vaccination, sets a powerful example across the nation.

She assured of the group’s determination to reach more girls, spark more conversations, and ignite lasting change.

She called on all to collaborate in ensuring that no girl is left behind, and that every girl has the opportunity to thrive.

Speaking on behalf of partners, representative of the World Health Organization (WHO), Mr. Stephen Amadi
described adolescence as a critical stage of life noting that many adolescent girls and young women in Nigeria continue to face significant barriers in accessing the health services they need.

He explained that Cervical cancer remains a major public health threat, disproportionately affecting women and girls across Nigeria noting that with the introduction of the HPV vaccine, there is a powerful tool to prevent HPV-related diseases and protect future generations.

According to him, from reproductive health to nutrition, from mental well-being to disease prevention, the challenges are vast, stating that the solutions are within the reach of the people.

He said; “We must not only identify these challenges but also forge strategic partnerships, advocate for policy reforms, and implement sustainable interventions that will bridge the gaps in healthcare access. Every girl deserves the right to quality health services, education, and support that will empower her to thrive, lead, and contribute to our nation’s growth.”

Amadi said that adolescent nutrition plays a crucial role in the overall development and resilience of young girls stating that poor nutrition affects growth, cognitive function, and immunity factors that can shape a girl’s health trajectory for years to come.

He called on stakeholders to work together to spread awareness, increase vaccine uptake, and reinforce the importance of proper nutrition adding that they ensure that every adolescent girl has access to the knowledge and services that will protect her health and future.

Highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to both Governor Aiyedatiwa and his wife, Oluwaseun at the event.