Cervical cancer: Nigeria Launches initiative to Promote Advocacy Excellence

Nigeria has taken a significant step in the fight against cervical cancer with the introduction of the Cervical Cancer Elimination Service Award (CCESA).

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The initiative aims to recognize individuals and organizations contributing to the elimination of cervical cancer and will debut at the second Stakeholders’ Summit on Cervical Cancer Elimination in Nigeria (SSCCEN) in Abuja the nations capital.

The CCESA aligns with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Cervical Cancer Elimination Initiative (CCEI), which was launched in November 2020. The initiative sets a global goal to reduce cervical cancer cases to fewer than four per 100,000 women by the end of the century.

Achieving this target requires countries to reach 90% HPV vaccination coverage for adolescent girls, 70% screening coverage for women by ages 35 and 45, and 90% treatment for cervical lesions.

The Executive Director of the End Cervical Cancer Nigeria Initiative (ECCNI), Dr. Ishak Lawal, expressed optimism about Nigeria’s progress toward these targets. He highlighted the importance of stakeholder collaboration, which he believes can drive significant results even with limited resources.

The SSCCEN, which provides a platform for collaboration and idea-sharing, will focus on tracking activities and developing strategies to accelerate progress.

“This year’s summit will also emphasize scaling up best practices through the CCESA, which celebrates excellence in cervical cancer advocacy and action”.

The maiden CCESA awards will honour contributions from individuals and organizations that have played key roles in advancing cervical cancer prevention and control in Nigeria.

Among the honourees are Dr. Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu for her global advocacy and UNICEF Nigeria for its pivotal role in implementing Nigeria’s first standalone cervical cancer summit.

Dr. Ramatu Hassan will be recognized for developing Nigeria’s first strategic plan for cervical cancer prevention and control, while Senator Ibrahim Oloriegbe and Hon. Dr. Yusuf Tanko Sununu will be celebrated for their roles in initiating the Cancer Health Fund during the ninth National Assembly.

The former Executive Director of the National Primary Healthcare Development Agency (NPHCDA), Dr. Faisal Shuaib, will also be honoured for successfully introducing the HPV vaccine into Nigeria’s Expanded Programme on Immunization. Additionally, Alhaji Mohammed Alkali, CEO of the North-East Development Commission, will be recognized for supporting the establishment of the North-East Collaboration for Cervical Cancer Elimination.

In subsequent editions, the CCESA will honour the best-performing states, local governments, and NGOs based on measurable progress toward elimination targets. The introduction of a virtual cervical cancer elimination dashboard will further enhance transparency and accountability by providing real-time data on progress across Nigeria.

The selection process for CCESA honourees will be rigorous and transparent, with nominees evaluated on their demonstrable impact, leadership, innovation, and collaboration. “This ensures that the awards reflect excellence and inspire stakeholders to intensify their efforts”.

Dr. Lawal emphasized that the CCESA is more than just an award; it is a call to action for all stakeholders to strengthen advocacy, implement sustainable strategies, and work collaboratively to eliminate cervical cancer in Nigeria.

The SSCCEN, held annually, provides an important platform for stakeholders to align efforts, share experiences, and explore innovative solutions. The introduction of the CCESA adds a new dimension to the summit by creating an incentive for excellence.

Nigeria’s commitment to cervical cancer elimination reflects a broader global health agenda. By recognizing champions of this cause, the country is fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and partnership.

The CCESA is expected to not only celebrate achievements but also catalyse progress, positioning Nigeria as a leading nation in the global fight against cervical cancer. This year’s summit and awards mark a significant step toward achieving that vision.