Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, the wife of the Ekiti State Governor, who spearheaded the HPV immunization drive launched in May 2025, lauded the initiative as a resounding success. Speaking at the meeting, she emphasized the program's effectiveness in reaching targeted communities and providing crucial protection to young girls against the life-threatening disease.
"The successful vaccination of over 266,000 girls against HPV is a testament to our commitment to the health and well-being of our young population," Dr. Oyebanji stated. "This proactive measure will significantly reduce the incidence of cervical cancer in Ekiti State in the years to come, saving lives and securing the future health of our women."
Beyond the HPV vaccination success, Dr. Oyebanji also highlighted the critical importance of the impending Measles-Rubella vaccine rollout. She described it as a vital step in safeguarding Ekiti’s children, particularly those within the vulnerable nine to 14 age group, from the debilitating and potentially fatal effects of measles and rubella.
Furthermore, Dr. Oyebanji extended a crucial health advisory to women in the state, urging them to prioritize regular breast checks. She informed attendees about the availability of a mammography machine at the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital in Ado Ekiti, encouraging them to utilize this resource for early detection and prevention of breast cancer.
Adding to this, the state's Commissioner for Health, Dr. Oyebanji Filani, provided further details regarding the Measles-Rubella vaccine. He announced that the national rollout of this vital vaccine is scheduled for October 2025. Dr. Filani emphasized that the Ekiti State Government is proactively engaging with residents through sensitization programs to ensure widespread awareness and understanding of the vaccine's benefits before its introduction.
Dr. Filani passionately called upon all stakeholders, including community leaders, healthcare professionals, educators, and religious figures, to actively participate as "champions of the vaccination campaigns." He stressed the collective responsibility of the community in ensuring high vaccination coverage. He also urged parents and guardians to prioritize the health of their children by ensuring they receive the necessary immunizations against these preventable yet dangerous diseases.
The dual focus on the successful HPV vaccination campaign and the proactive preparation for the Measles-Rubella vaccine introduction underscores the Ekiti State Government's unwavering commitment to preventive healthcare and the overall well-being of its citizens, particularly its women and children. This multi-pronged approach aims to build a healthier and more resilient future for Ekiti State.