The Ekiti State Commissioner for Information, Rt. Hon. Taiwo Olatunbosun has called on media practitioners to accurately inform the public about the importance of the ongoing Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccination campaign in the State.
Rt Hon. Olatunbosun made the call at Ikere-Ekiti during a one-day advocacy meeting with the theme: “Media Advocacy Dialogue to Increase Trust and Uptake of HPV Vaccines, NPSIA and Routine Immunization in Ekiti State, organized by UNICEF in collaboration with Ekiti State Ministry of Information.
The Commissioner who was represented by the Permanent Secretary of his Ministry, Mr. Olusesan Alabi highlighted the media’s crucial role in dispelling misconceptions and rumours surrounding the vaccine, noting that since the introduction of the vaccine in May, 2024, misinformation has hindered vaccination efforts.
“Without doubt, the Human Papilloma Virus is deadly and according to Health Specialists, it is the most frequent cause of cervical cancer deaths among women, hence, the development of the vaccine to combat the virus is a right step in the right direction”, he said.
“There is also an urgent need for us to raise awareness about the dangers of HPV and let people know that the HPV vaccine, which is recommended for girls aged 9 to 14 years, is safe, effective and free”, Olatunbosun added.
Rt. Hon. Olatunbosun who restated the commitment of the State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji to the well-being and overall development of Ekiti State, commended the United Nations Children Emergency Fund (UNICEF) for being a consistent partner and collaborator in ensuring the safety of the health of women and children in the State.
In her goodwill message, UNICEF Social Behavioral Change Specialist for Southwest and Edo State, Mrs. Aderonke Akinola-Adewole emphasized their commitment to ensuring every child in Ekiti State receives the essential rights necessary for survival, growth and development.
Mrs. Akinola-Adewole commended the ongoing efforts in Ekiti, stating, “We celebrate your work in guaranteeing that all children, regardless of their background, enjoy fundamental rights to life and development.”
She highlighted the vital role of the media as a key stakeholder in UNICEF’s mission to promote and protect children’s rights, adding that the media’s reach amplifies their advocacy efforts.
“We see the media as a tool for advocacy, a tool for edification, a tool for engagement and a tool for sustainability and that’s why for every opportunity when we get to engage the media we do not take it for granted because we know the enormous work they do”, stated the Specialist.
- Oyebanji Hails OAU’S Long-Standing Reputation for Excellence
- New Army formation takes off in Ekiti
- GOVERNOR OYEBANJI TO COMMISSION NEW OFFICE ACCOMMODATION FOR WORKS MINISTRY
- Oyebanji restates commitment to equipping youths with Innovative, Entrepreneurial Skill
- Oyebanji reinstates commitment to sports development
In her opening remarks, Director of Programmes, Mrs. Sola Fadiran, outlined the meeting’s objectives, which included garnering media support to raise awareness about the dangers of HPV, strengthening the partnership between UNICEF and the media, among others.
“The knowledge gained from this programme will contribute significantly to the well-being of children and women across the State.” She added.
Also present at the event were the UNICEF SBC Consultant in Ekiti State, Mrs. Yetunde Akinyosoye, Managing Director, Broadcasting Service of Ekiti State (BSES), Mr. Olu Popoola General Managers of all the Radio Stations across the State, Correspondence of Punch Newspaper, the Director of Information Services, Ministry of Information, Mr. Tope Babalola, top officials from Primary Health Care and the Ministry of Information.