by Abdulmujeeb Opeyemi Muhammad-Olodo, Laura Asher Introduction Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine prevents over 90% of cervical cancers. In October 2023, Nigeria launched a free HPV vaccination campaign targeting girls aged 9–14 years.
Despite removing cost barriers, misinformation about fertility impacts and population control contributed to variable uptake across states. Understanding caregiver decision-making is crucial for improving coverage.
This study aimed to explore factors influencing caregivers’ HPV vaccination decisions during Nigeria’s 2023 campaign in Ilorin East Local Government Area, Kwara State. Methods A qualitative study using focus group discussions (FGDs) was conducted using purposive and snowball sampling.
We recruited 41 caregivers (mean age 47 years; 71% female) of eligible girls from urban and rural communities. Five FGDs were conducted: four with vaccine acceptors (n = 35) and one with decliners (n = 6).
Discussions were conducted in Yoruba, audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using Braun and Clarke’s reflexive thematic analysis. Ethical approval was obtained from two institutional review boards.
Results Four themes emerged from the analysis.
PLOS ONE (Medicine) published a clinical update in Research Highlights on 16 Jun 2026.
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