Osun First Lady Leads Campaign Against Cervical Cancer and Measles

The First Lady of Osun State, Chief Mrs. Titilola Adeleke, has taken the lead in a statewide campaign aimed at curbing the spread of cervical cancer and measles, particularly among adolescent girls.

Speaking during a one-day awareness and sensitisation workshop held in Osogbo on Tuesday, Mrs. Adeleke urged parents and guardians to prioritise the health of their children through regular medical check-ups and early detection. The workshop aimed to educate the public on the dangers posed by these diseases and promote proactive measures to prevent them.

The First Lady also announced that Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) and Measles-Rubella (MR) vaccines are now available across all health facilities in the state, encouraging families to take full advantage of the immunisation programme.

“This campaign is about saving lives and securing the future of our young girls. Early detection and vaccination are key tools in our fight against these preventable diseases,” she said.

The initiative aligns with Governor Ademola Adeleke’s broader healthcare agenda to ensure accessible, affordable, and quality health services for all citizens of Osun State. It also forms part of a nationwide campaign spearheaded by the Nigeria Governors’ Spouses Forum, aimed at eliminating the spread and devastating effects of cervical cancer and measles in Nigeria.

The event featured an educational lecture by Mrs. Olaore, Osun State Immunization Officer, who provided in-depth insights on disease prevention. She advised young girls to maintain personal hygiene and avoid unprotected sexual activity, while urging parents to ensure their children complete the full course of measles vaccinations. She also debunked harmful myths about vaccine safety.

“Parents must understand that vaccines are safe and effective. They must help us spread accurate information and dismiss the misconception that measles vaccines harm infants,” Mrs. Olaore stated.

In his remarks, the Osun State Commissioner for Health, Barr. Jola Moses Akintola, praised Mrs. Adeleke’s leadership and described the campaign as both timely and essential.

He added, “Mothers must take the issue of hygiene and lifestyle seriously for the sake of their children’s well-being. Preventive care is the most effective approach.”

The event, held at Ataoja School of Science, Osogbo, was attended by a wide array of dignitaries, including top government officials and political figures. Notable attendees included Deaconess Olusola Adewusi (Wife of the Deputy Governor), Dr. Michael Oyerinde (Special Adviser on Primary Health Care), Hon. Mrs. Temilade Khalid (Special Adviser on Children’s Affairs), and Mr. Boladele (representing the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Health).

Also in attendance were Hon. Mrs. Felicia Adeniran (Executive Chairperson, Ayedaade Local Government), Mrs. Adenike Adeleke (Wife of the Commissioner for Budget and Economic Planning), Mrs. Monisade Awotunde (Wife of the State ALGON Chairman), as well as representatives from religious organisations, the World Health Organization (WHO), and UNICEF.

The campaign is expected to continue across various local governments in Osun State in the coming weeks, targeting increased awareness and access to vaccination services.