The Lagos State government has reassured the public that the Human Papillomavirus vaccine does not lead to infertility or encourage promiscuity, countering widespread misinformation in various communities across Nigeria.
The Special Adviser to the Lagos State Governor on Health, Mrs. Kemi Ogunyemi, addressed these concerns during the Hilda Egbo 10th Anniversary Cancer-Free Gala and Fundraising event in Ikoyi, Lagos.
Hilda Egbo, a breast cancer survivor, dedicated her birthday celebration to raising ₦200 million for the St. Cyril Cancer Treatment Foundation.
Commending Egbo’s resilience and dedication to supporting other cancer patients, Ogunyemi highlighted the state’s commitment to improving cancer care accessibility.
She revealed that Lagos is developing a comprehensive cancer center while upgrading existing facilities to ensure treatment is both available and affordable.
“Lagos State government is subsidizing the cost of cancer treatment. We are partnering with cancer centers, and we’re also building our own comprehensive cancer center and upgrading the ones that we have.
That’s what we’re trying to do through the Lagos State Health Scheme (Ilera Eko). We’re expanding that to include cancer treatments. The premiums will be higher, but the amount of money that they’re going to be paying will actually be less,” she explained.
Addressing concerns about the HPV vaccine, Ogunyemi emphasized that it is completely safe.
“HPV vaccine is good, it’s free, and it will prevent. It’s not going to do any harm; it’s not going to cause infertility or make the child promiscuous or anything like that. So we’re doing a lot of advocacy and awareness because when people know things, then they are able to make their own informed decisions.”
Meanwhile, Egbo revealed that the funds from the event will be used to expand healthcare services, acquire critical equipment, and offer financial and palliative support to underprivileged cancer patients.
“I’m doing this fundraising because I believe there are a lot of people who have a chance at survival the same way I have; however, they don’t have the funds for it. And, you know, funds are necessary because cancer care is very expensive. Every single person who is diagnosed with cancer has a chance at life. Therefore, as a society, I think all of us should come together and help more people who can’t afford treatment,” Egbo urged.
President of the Nigerian Cancer Societ, Prof. Abidemi Omonisi, praised Egbo’s inspiring journey, describing her story as a source of hope for those still battling cancer.
Represented by NCS Lagos Chairman, Tinu Sanusi, Omonisi acknowledged the invaluable role of organizations like the St. Cyril Cancer Treatment Foundation in delivering quality care.
“Survivorship is a testament to resilience, hope, and the power of early detection, treatment, and unwavering support,” he noted.
Hilda’s story serves as a powerful reminder that cancer is not a death sentence but a fight that can be won with proper care, determination, and a strong support system.
“At the NCS, our mission is rooted in the belief that no one should face cancer alone. We are committed to advocacy, education, early detection, patient support, and access to affordable, quality cancer care. Through strategic partnerships and collaborations with national and international organizations, we strive to advance policies, initiatives, and interventions that improve the overall cancer care landscape in Nigeria,” Omonisi stated.
Meanwhile, founder of the St. Cyril Cancer Treatment Foundation, Mrs. Mojisola Animashaun, expressed concern over the limited number of cancer treatment centers in Nigeria.
She explained that the foundation was established to bridge this gap and provide accessible, high-quality care for cancer patients.
“We don’t have enough cancer centres in Nigeria. Many people have cancers, but they can’t afford the treatment, many don’t know where to go. So, that’s why I started the foundation—to show people the path and how to get treatment, and where to get quality treatment,” Animashaun stated.
“For over a decade, we have remained at the forefront of Nigeria’s battle against cancer, delivering holistic, patient-centred initiatives through inclusive awareness campaigns, community interventions, free screening programs, patient navigation, pioneering research, and providing financial and emotional support for indigent patients.”
As efforts continue to improve cancer care in Nigeria, advocates urge the public to support initiatives that ensure access to treatment, early detection, and proper education, ultimately saving more lives.
