The First Ladies Against Cancer (FLAC) has empowered 10 cancer survivors in a bid to improve access to post-treatment care, encourage early screening, and amplify prevention efforts nationwide.
The empowerment event, held in Lagos to commemorate Cancer Survivors Month, was organised in partnership with Roche Nigeria and the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT).
In her address,the former First Lady of Kebbi State and Chairperson of FLAC, Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu stressed that cancer awareness, early detection, and survivor support must be viewed as essential, not optional.
“FLAC has consistently positioned itself as a coalition of care, working across states to change the cancer story in Nigeria,” she said.
“Cancer control goes beyond medical treatment—it’s a nation-building issue. That’s why FLAC’s mission focuses on proactive measures like early detection, awareness campaigns, outreach, and survivor support to improve outcomes for cancer warriors.”
She described the event as a reaffirmation of FLAC’s commitment to standing with every individual affected by cancer.
Also speaking at the event, former First Lady of Ogun State, Mrs. Olufunsho Amosun, urged First Ladies across Nigeria to leverage their influence to shape policy and drive social change in the fight against cancer.
The First Lady of Kisumu County in Kenya, Mrs. Dorothy Nyong’o lamented the disproportionate burden of cancer on women and called for bold leadership from women in power.
“As First Ladies, you have the unique privilege to lead this charge and save lives,” she said.
“We must prioritise cancer control, push for increased funding for screening and palliative care, and build a country where every woman can live free of the burden of cancer.
“When women suffer, entire families suffer. But when women thrive, whole societies benefit.”
Cancer survivor Ms. Tolulope Popoola delivered a moving testimonial, encouraging others currently battling the disease to remain hopeful.
“Cancer challenged every part of who I was. It tested my body, my emotions, and my spirit. There were dark days when I felt like giving up,” she said.
“But with the unwavering support of my family, friends, and medical team, I kept going. Cancer is not a death sentence—it’s a battle you can fight and win.”
The event also featured a book launch and the induction of new members into Friends of FLAC (FoFLAC), an advocacy network supporting the coalition’s mission.
