Reported by: Agande Richard Aondofa | Edited by: Henry Owen
In a bid to improve Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination rates among girls aged nine, Bauchi State is set to roll out a state-wide social media campaign in partnership with international organizations Upswell and Capulet. The campaign, coordinated with the Bauchi State Primary Health Care Board (BSPHCB), aims to sensitize parents, caregivers, and communities about the importance of vaccinating girls against HPV, a leading cause of cervical cancer.
Ahead of the campaign launch, representatives from Upswell and Capulet, led by Sarah Francis, met with Dr. Rilwanu Mohammed, Executive Chairman of BSPHCB, to discuss the initiative and explore collaboration opportunities. The organizations highlighted their global experience in digital health campaigns, having partnered with institutions such as the Gates Foundation, WHO, and UNICEF, and supported vaccination drives in countries including the US, UK, India, and Nigeria.
Francis explained that the campaign will focus on evidence-based, culturally sensitive messages delivered through platforms such as Facebook and Instagram, aiming to inform parents and motivate girls to understand the importance of the vaccine. “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.
Pharmacist Rabi’u Muhammad Fagge, a Gates Foundation consultant in Bauchi, described the initiative as timely, noting that misinformation and low awareness have contributed to vaccine hesitancy. He stressed that digital campaigns could effectively address misconceptions and encourage vaccine uptake.
Dr. Mohammed welcomed the partnership, affirming BSPHCB’s support and noting that the campaign aligns with the state’s broader vision to strengthen immunization and primary health care systems. He pledged to facilitate collaboration with traditional and religious leaders to ensure the initiative reaches all local government areas in Bauchi State.
Observers familiar with Bauchi State’s health challenges note that integrating digital advocacy with community engagement could be a pivotal strategy in increasing vaccination coverage and improving adolescent health outcomes across the state.
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