The National Orientation Agency (NOA) has urged Nigerians to report signs and symptoms of cancer early to health facilities.
The NOA’s Director in Jigawa State, Ahmad Ibrahim, made the call in a statement issued in Dutse on Wednesday to commemorate World Cancer Day 2025.
Ibrahim said the agency had joined the global community to mark World Cancer Day, observed annually on February 4, to raise awareness about cancer prevention, early detection, and equitable access to care.
He noted that cancer remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, with many cases detected late due to low awareness, stigma, and limited screening.
“Nigerians should understand that cancer is not a death sentence if detected early. Many cancers are preventable through healthy lifestyle choices. Late presentation remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in Nigeria, and access to information, screening, and treatment saves lives,” he said.
Ibrahim listed breast cancer, cervical cancer, prostate cancer, liver cancer, and colorectal cancer as among the most common cancers in Nigeria.
“Some of the cancer warning signs that should not be ignored are unusual lumps or swellings, persistent pain, and unexplained weight loss. Others include abnormal bleeding or discharge, changes in breast shape, size, or skin, persistent cough or hoarseness, and non-healing sores,” he said.
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The director, who stressed that early reporting to a health facility can save lives, advised people to avoid tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption.
He also recommended eating a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, engaging in regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy body weight, avoiding harmful sun exposure, and getting vaccinated against Hepatitis B and Human Papillomavirus (HPV).
“So, NOA urges Nigerians to take advantage of routine cancer screening, especially breast self-examination and mammography, cervical cancer screening (Pap smear/HPV test), prostate screening for men above 40, and regular medical check-ups,” he said.
Ibrahim dismissed myths that cancer is caused by witchcraft or is contagious, adding that traditional remedies alone cannot cure cancer, while early medical care improves survival outcomes.
“In line with the NOA’s 7 for 7 Agenda and the CLHEEAN Framework, the agency calls on communities to promote healthy living, religious and traditional leaders to support awareness efforts, families to encourage screening and reduce stigma, and media practitioners to sustain accurate cancer reporting.
“Cancer care is a shared responsibility. Closing the care gap begins with awareness, compassion, and timely action. Protect your health. Get screened. Speak up. Support one another. Healthy citizens build a strong nation,” the director said.
