As part of its unwavering commitment to eliminating cervical cancer, Nigeria has introduced the Cervical Cancer Elimination Service Award (CCESA) to honor individuals and organizations championing the fight against the disease.
The inaugural edition of the award will be presented at the 2nd Stakeholders’ Summit on Cervical Cancer Elimination in Nigeria (SSCCEN), slated for December 5-6, 2024, at Chida Hotel, Abuja.
The CCESA aligns with global cervical cancer elimination targets set by the World Health Organization (WHO), focusing on:
Achieving 90% HPV vaccination coverage for girls aged 9–14 years.
Reaching 70% screening coverage for women at ages 35 and 45.
Ensuring 90% access to treatment for women with cervical lesions or cancer.
Honorees of the Maiden CCESA
The 2024 CCESA will recognize six individuals and one organization for their exceptional contributions:
Her Excellency (Dr.) Zainab Shinkafi Bagudu – Global Cervical Cancer Elimination Ambassador Award for positioning Nigeria on the global map in cervical cancer advocacy.
Dr. Ramatu Hassan – Recognized for developing Nigeria’s first strategic plan for cervical cancer prevention and control (2016–2020).
Senator (Dr.) Ibrahim Oloriegbe and Hon. (Dr.) Yusuf Tanko Sununu – Lauded for legislative efforts ensuring the launch of the Cancer Health Fund (CHF).
Dr. Faisal Shuaib – Celebrated for introducing the HPV vaccine into Nigeria’s Expanded Program on Immunization (EPI).
Alhaji Mohammed Alkali – Honored for spearheading the North-East Collaboration for Cervical Cancer Elimination (NE-C3E).
UNICEF Nigeria – Acknowledged for supporting Nigeria’s first standalone cervical cancer elimination stakeholders’ summit.
Advancing Collaboration and Innovation
Dr. Ishak Lawal, Executive Director of the End Cervical Cancer Nigeria Initiative (ECCNI), emphasized the importance of collaboration:
“By synergizing efforts, stakeholders can accelerate progress even with limited resources.”
The SSCCEN will also unveil a Virtual Cervical Cancer Elimination Dashboard to monitor real-time progress across states and local governments, fostering transparency and accountability.
Expanding Recognition in Future Editions
The CCESA will become an annual event, expanding to honor states, local governments, and NGOs demonstrating excellence in cervical cancer prevention and treatment. Recipients will be selected through a rigorous evaluation of measurable impact, innovation, leadership, and collaboration.
Nigeria’s Leadership in Cervical Cancer Elimination
Through initiatives like the CCESA, SSCCEN, and ECCNI, Nigeria is positioning itself as a leader in cervical cancer elimination. By leveraging innovation and collective action, stakeholders are paving the way toward achieving WHO’s ambitious goals and securing a healthier future for women and girls.
