ABUJA (SUNDIATA POST)- The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammed Pate, has commended the Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association (NAFOWA), for its efforts in the fight against breast cancer.
Pate, who was represented by his Senior Special Adviser, Dr Emmanuel Odu, gave the commendation at the NAFOWA Cancer Awareness Walk and Talk to commemorate the International Cancer Awareness Month on Saturday in Abuja.
The minister said that cancer had affected all directly or indirectly with many who had lost loved ones and the devastating impact on families and communities.
He said the awareness walk by NAFOWA had shown the power of community, saying they could raise awareness about cancer prevention and early detection, support research and innovation treatments, as well as provide comfort and hope to those affected.
“I urge us all to get screened regularly, encourage loved ones to prioritise their health, support cancer research and organisations and to share your story to inspire others.
“Finally, to survivors amongst us, I salute your strength and courage. Your journey inspires us to stay committed to this fight,” he said
The minister said the Federal Government had established cancer centres in each of the geopolitical zones of the country to ensure cancer free Nigeria.
The National President of NAFOWA, Hajiya Rakiya Abubakar, said the event was in line with the theme of the year which is, “Educate, Empower, and Eradicate: A Future without Cancer”, which captured the heart of their shared mission.
Abubakar said there was the urgency of raising awareness as a community to drive change, support those affected, and ultimately work toward a future where cancer would no longer be a threat to families, nation, or the world.
She emphasised the need to prioritise education for themselves and communities, adding that Knowledge was true power and could be life-saving when it comes to cancer.
According to her, by understanding the risks, recognising early signs, and learning about prevention strategies, we take a critical step in protecting ourselves and loved ones.
“Together, we can spread this vital information and create a ripple effect of awareness that has the potential to save countless lives.
“Secondly, we must empower those affected by cancer. This involves ensuring access to robust support systems, high-quality healthcare, and the essential resources needed to navigate this challenging journey.
“No one should battle cancer in isolation, and through empowerment, we provide strength and hope to individuals and families. With our collective support, we will build a stronger foundation for fighting this disease,” she said.
The NAFOWA President said the association had taken a bold step by establishing its own cancer treatment centre as part of their commitment to enhance empowerment.
The centre, she said, was established in February 2012 as a testament to their dedication to providing critical care and resources for those affected by cancer.
She said it was a vital tool in their mission to ease the burden on patients and their families, offering them a path toward healing and recovery.
“Importantly, we must all commit to the ultimate goal: eradicating cancer. With advances in research, medical treatments, and early detection, we are closer than ever to realising a future free of this disease.
“However, reaching this goal will require a unified effort, patients, survivors, caregivers, advocates, and the wider community all working together.
“Only through our collective resolve we can transform the vision of a world without cancer into a reality,” she added.
The Director General, National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, Dr Usman Aliyu, said the centre was enhancing capacity building on cancer screening and prevention services in many centres across the country.
Aliu, who was represented by Dr Usman Waziri, said cancer was a global health concern, adding that the Federal Government was committed to the control of cancer in the country. (NAN)
- Latest
- Trending
