They came with questions, doubts, and years-old rumors but many left with vaccinated daughters.
In Kuje, Gwagwalada, Bwari, and AMAC, the HPV Vaccine Townhall Sensitization and Mobilization Drive was a meeting of power and persuasion. Traditional rulers in flowing regalia sat beside WDC Chairmen with notepads ready. Women and youth leaders spoke with authority and urgency. Health educators and vaccinators stood ready to act. From the start, the air was thick with anticipation -everyone had come to speak, listen, and decide.
Then came the turning point: a familiar voice from a popular radio program, the same one that once sowed doubt, now stood in solidarity:
“We are getting more educated… and this is convincing. Make we no take ignorance come ignore wetin go save our lives. Ours is to present it to you; it is up to you now to make an informed decision.”
The crowd leaned in. Murmurs turned to applause. Testimonials of loss and survival followed, each story strengthening the resolve to protect the next generation.
Some caregivers had brought their girls; others were so convinced they rushed home mid-event to bring eligible girls back for vaccination before the day ended.
By the close, it wasn’t just understanding that had changed -it was ownership. Pastors and imams pledged to carry the message into sermons. School heads began planning an emergency meeting to drive vaccination once schools resumed. The Sultan Foundation stood in solidarity, pledging to mobilize all traditional and community leaders under its network.
UNICEF, WHO, JSI, and other partners echoed the call to keep the momentum alive.
The myths were challenged. The facts were clear.
FCT had spoken: Our girls deserve protection. We will stand for them!
