Reported by: Agande Richard Aondofa | Edited by: Henry Owen
In a move to increase the uptake of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine among girls aged nine, Bauchi State is set to roll out a state-wide social media campaign in collaboration with two international organizations, Upswell and Capulet, known for their expertise in digital advocacy and public health mobilization. The campaign is coordinated with the Bauchi State Primary Health Care Board (BSPHCB) to sensitize parents, caregivers, and communities on the importance of early vaccination against HPV, a virus responsible for most cervical cancer cases.
Ahead of the campaign, representatives from Upswell and Capulet, led by Sarah Francis, met with Dr. Rilwanu Mohammed, Executive Chairman of BSPHCB, to outline their objectives and explore avenues for collaboration. The organizations bring global experience in designing and implementing digital health communication campaigns, having previously partnered with the Gates Foundation, WHO, and UNICEF across countries including the United States, UK, India, and Nigeria.
During the meeting, Francis explained that the campaign will focus on culturally sensitive, evidence-based messages tailored to resonate with both parents and young audiences. She emphasized that social media platforms such as Facebook and Instagram are effective tools for influencing health behavior and bridging information gaps. “Our goal is to ensure that every eligible girl in Bauchi State is vaccinated against HPV and that no parent is left uninformed about this life-saving vaccine,” she said.
Local stakeholders also endorsed the initiative. Pharmacist Rabi’u Muhammad Fagge, a Gates Foundation consultant in Bauchi, described the campaign as timely, noting that misinformation, myths, and low awareness have contributed to vaccine hesitancy in the state. He stressed that a well-structured digital approach could demystify misconceptions and promote acceptance.
Responding to the delegation, Dr. Mohammed welcomed the partnership and assured full support from the BSPHCB. He highlighted that the campaign aligns with the state’s ongoing efforts to strengthen immunization coverage and primary health care systems. He pledged to facilitate collaboration with traditional and religious leaders to ensure effective rollout across all local government areas of Bauchi State.
Observers familiar with Bauchi State’s health landscape note that the campaign comes at a critical time, as adolescent health awareness remains low in rural communities, and innovative strategies are needed to improve vaccine uptake. By leveraging social media alongside community engagement, the initiative aims to ensure girls’ protection against cervical cancer and contribute to broader public health outcomes in the state.
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