I stand before you with a heart full of hope and a profound sense of purpose as we gather to celebrate a historic moment in our nation’s healthcare journey and a momentous day in the history of our state. We are here to celebrate a significant stride in our healthcare and that is to flag-off the inclusion of Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine into our Routine Immunization schedule, targeting girls aged 9 to 14 years. This decision is bound to have a profound impact on the lives of our young girls and also marks our unwavering commitment to the health and well-being of our community, particularly the future women of our state.
The introduction of the HPV vaccine into our routine immunization program is not just a medical breakthrough; it is a beacon of hope for generations to come. By providing our young girls with this vaccine, we are not merely shielding them from a devastating disease; we are empowering them with the promise of a life unburdened by the fear of cervical cancer “Today, we stand united, armed with the power of prevention”.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the brilliant minds in the scientific community, the dedicated healthcare professionals, and the relentless researchers who have laboured tirelessly to bring this vaccine to fruition. Your unwavering commitment to the advancement of medical science is awe-inspiring. Today's achievement stands as a testament to human ingenuity and our ability to conquer even the most challenging health threats when we join forces.
To the parents, caregivers and guardians present here, I urge you to embrace this opportunity. Let us, together, ensure that every eligible girl receives the HPV vaccine. It is an investment in their future, a gesture of love and care that will resonate throughout their lives. I understand that making decisions about our children's health can be daunting, but rest assured, this vaccine is safe, effective, and endorsed by the most reputable healthcare organizations globally.
I implore you to place your trust in the expertise of our healthcare professionals and provide your daughters with the gift of protection against cervical cancer. Let us be the generation that breaks the chain of this disease and paves the way for a healthier tomorrow.
Educators, you play a vital role in shaping our society's knowledge and attitudes. I urge you to incorporate information about HPV vaccination into your curriculum, fostering understanding and dispelling myths. Knowledge is our most potent weapon against ignorance and fear. By equipping our communities with accurate information, we empower them to make informed decisions regarding their health. I also extend my appreciation to the teachers, community leaders, religious leaders and volunteers who will play a pivotal role in spreading awareness about the importance of this vaccine. Your influence is immeasurable, I thank you for your commitment.
I call upon our healthcare providers to embrace this opportunity as a sacred duty. Your compassion, dedication, and expertise are the cornerstones of our healthcare system. Administer the HPV vaccine with care, understanding, and patience. Each dose you deliver represents a step towards a future where cervical cancer is a rare occurrence. As we embark on this transformative journey, let us remember that our actions today echo through the annals of history. We are not just preventing a disease; we are shaping a healthier, stronger, and more resilient society. Let this day serve as a testament to our collective determination to safeguard the well-being of our citizens, especially our young girls, who represent the promise and potential of our nation and state.
In closing, I express my deepest gratitude to the good people of Osun State, supporting partners; WHO, UNICEF, Clinton Health Access Initiative (CHAI), Rotary, Nigerian Red Cross Society, other organizations, and institutions that has contributed to making this day possible. Together, we are rewriting the narrative of healthcare in our nation and state. Let us continue this noble endeavor with unwavering determination, compassion, and unity. May our state stand as a shining example of progress, health, and prosperity for all.
Thank you, and may our shared journey towards a healthier future be blessed with success.
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