THE Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, has commended the Medical Women Association of Nigeria (MWAN) for their commitment to collaborate with the Federal Government in the second phase rollout of Human papillomavirus (HPV) in 21 states.
During a meeting with Dr Esther Nwadiinibi, the International President of MWAN, and Nigerian chapter executives, Professor Pate emphasized the government’s objective of transitioning from a focus on medical treatment to prevention.
He lauded the planned partnership with MWAN, stating that it would be instrumental in dispelling widespread misconceptions about HPV vaccines.
The Minister further outlined the government’s dedication to implementing the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal and Investment Program through the Compact. He urged MWAN to utilize its influential platform to drive solutions towards achieving universal health coverage for all Nigerians, highlighting the importance of strengthened partnerships in this endeavour.
“As we make progress in the implementation of the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal and Investment Program through the Compact, we count on your strong voice and influence to drive solutions towards universal health coverage for all Nigerians through our strengthened partnerships”.
He said the goals articulated for the health sector were to save lives reduce the physical and financial burden and produce health care for Nigerians, which he said requires all.
Dr Esther Nwadiinibi, President of the Medical Women International Association, shared her plans to organize an African Women in Medicine, Health & Wellness conference in Nigeria. She sought support from the Federal Government for the success of the conference.
Professor Rosemary Ogu, the National President of MWAN, informed the Minister about the association’s efforts in promoting, sensitizing, and adopting health facilities for breast and cervical cancer.
She expressed excitement about the free Cervical Cancer HPV vaccination for girls launched by the federal government and expressed MWAN’s readiness to be fully involved in the next phase launched in the remaining states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
“We are particularly excited that the federal government has launched the free Cervical Cancer HPV vaccination for girls. We look forward to the next phase to be launched in the remaining states and hope we are fully involved. MWAN is ready in all the states of the federation and FCT”, she added.
