The Chairperson of First Ladies Against Cancer (FLAC), Mrs. Chioma Uzodimma, has urged stronger awareness, early detection, and collaborative action to tackle the rising burden of cancer in Nigeria and worldwide.
Uzodimma, wife of Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, made the call during the University of Abuja Women’s Association (UAWA) cancer awareness programme themed: “United by Unique: Know it, Check it, Act Early” on Wednesday in Abuja.
She highlighted that cancer remains one of the leading causes of death globally, with nearly 20 million new cases and 10 million deaths reported each year.
“In Nigeria, over 120,000 new cases occur annually, and too many lives are lost due to limited access to care,” she said.
Uzodimma noted that breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer among Nigerian women, followed by cervical cancer, while prostate cancer is a leading cause of death among men.
“Many cancers are preventable and treatable if detected early. Awareness, education, and timely screening are essential for effective cancer control,” she added.
She emphasized the role of universities in shaping health outcomes, creating a culture of prevention, early detection, and dismantling stigma surrounding cancer.
FLAC, a coalition of spouses of African governors, is leveraging leadership and partnerships to improve cancer care through advocacy, screening programs, and policy reforms.
“Our focus is raising awareness, expanding access to treatment, strengthening partnerships, and advancing policies for equitable care,” Uzodimma said, noting a collaboration with the University of Abuja on childhood cancer education materials.
She advised students to maintain a healthy lifestyle, balanced diet, and regular physical activity, while avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol. Preventive services such as HPV vaccination and routine screenings were also encouraged.
“A cancer diagnosis is not a death sentence but a call to action and compassion,” she said, urging open conversations and support for affected persons.
Vice-Chancellor of the University of Abuja, Prof. Hakeem Fawehinmi, stressed the importance of early detection in improving treatment outcomes and called on men to also participate in raising awareness.
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Dr. Hadeezat Fawehinmi, Patroness of UAWA, emphasized bridging care gaps, dispelling myths, and promoting healthy choices.
Prof. Usman Aliyu, Director-General of the National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment (NICRAT), noted that cancer is a growing global health crisis, disproportionately affecting low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), which account for 57% of new cases and 65% of deaths.
Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu, Founder of the Medical Cancer Foundation, highlighted challenges including poor diagnostics, treatment access, funding, and lack of comprehensive data on cancer incidence in Nigeria. She urged the university community to initiate research programs to combat cancer.
The event also featured members of the Ministers’ Wives Association, led by Chairperson Bilikisu Kyari, and concluded with plaque presentations to select guests.
