By Abdulkareem Haruna

The North-East Development Commission (NEDC), in a landmark effort to combat cervical cancer, has successfully concluded an extensive training program for 34 Obstetrics and Gynecology (O&G) doctors across the region.

The program, aimed at equipping health workers with the knowledge and skills to carry out extensive cervical cancer screening, is part of the NEDC’s commitment to supporting the healthcare needs of the subregion.

The training, held in partnership with the Federal University of Humanitarian Science Azare (FUHSA), University of Miami (UM), the Elimination of Cervical Cancer Nigeria Initiative (ECCNI), the Nigeria Cancer Society (NCS), and the AMEN Foundation, took place between 6th – 8th November 2023 at Gombe, the capital of Gombe state.

The newly trained O&G doctors will then pass on this knowledge to 336 health workers, including nurses, midwives, and Community Health Extension Workers (CHEWs) in primary health facilities across the 112 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the 18 senatorial districts of the region.

The training program, which included theoretical sessions and hands-on practicals, provided invaluable experience for the participants.

“The hands-on practical’s during the training program were invaluable. I was able to gain real-life experience by screening volunteers, which has greatly enhanced my skills and confidence in providing cervical cancer screening services at my facility,” said a CHEW from Hong LGA, Adamawa State.

Participants during a practical session of the training

The initiative is more than just a training program. It is a comprehensive approach to eliminate cervical cancer from the region by promoting collaboration, ownership, and sustainability among all stakeholders.

“The NEDC is dedicated to taking a comprehensive approach to eliminate cervical cancer. This involves promoting collaboration, ownership, and sustainability among all stakeholders for the ultimate benefit of the people,” remarked Dr. Batulu Isa Muhammad, the DGM Health Directorate of the NEDC, during a supervisory visit to Taraba state.

The training program concluded on December 6th, 2023, marking a significant step towards the goal of eliminating cervical cancer in Nigeria. The NEDC, with its partners, continues to demonstrate its commitment to improving the health and wellbeing of the people of the North-East region.