The Ikeja Metro Lions Club District 404B2 has launched a campaign to fight the rising cases of childhood cancer in Nigeria. With 80 percent of childhood cancers happening in low-income countries like Nigeria, the club gathered in Oregun to raise awareness, donate pediatric equipment, and bring hope to affected children.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), most childhood cancers occur in poorer nations, leaving Nigeria heavily affected. Lions District Governor, Olukemi Eribake, said Lions across Nigeria are joining forces to change the story of pediatric cancer in the country.
“Together, we are fighting for the future of our children. Our collective effort is to raise awareness, make treatment more accessible, and build a movement to defeat this deadly disease,” she said.
The campaign featured a Childhood Cancer Awareness Walk and Health Talk in Oregun, where Lions, health advocates, and residents marched through the streets to spread hope and resilience.
At Onigbogbo Primary Health Center, nursing mothers received health talks on how to recognize early warning signs and adopt preventive practices. The club’s president stressed the importance of knowledge: “Education is our best weapon. Early detection is the key to survival.”
The Lions also called on government to take stronger action. The president urged the creation of pediatric cancer wards, training for health workers, and subsidized treatment. He lamented that radiotherapy and other treatments remain too costly for many families.
The turnout at the event showed the strength of community action. Nigerians and Lions together are demanding better healthcare, early diagnosis, and stronger support systems to protect children from the harsh effects of cancer.
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month ambassador, Oriazowan John, encouraged families to embrace healthy living, good nutrition, and vigilance. “Every child deserves the chance to grow up healthy and strong. We must stand together to secure their future,” he said.
Medical expert, Dr. Tolu Taiwo, spoke on prevention and early detection. She warned against eating rotten produce, which could contain harmful agents, and cautioned families about excessive radiation from frequent X-rays or prolonged phone use near the head.
“Early detection greatly improves chances of survival. If caught on time, treatment success rates rise sharply. That’s why awareness is so important,” Dr. Taiwo explained.
As Nigeria faces this growing health challenge, Lions and health advocates insist that unity, knowledge, and government support can save many young lives. The battle against childhood cancer has just begun, but with hope and action, a future free of this disease is possible.
Together, they say, we can give children the future they deserve.
