The first lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has urged Nigerians to screen for cancer regularly, emphasising the importance of early detection.
Mrs Tinubu gave the advice during the commemoration of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation (MCF)’s Annual Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign, tagged: WalkawayCancer@10, in Abuja.
Represented by wife of the speaker of the National Assembly, Mrs. Fatima Abass, Senator Tinubu’s message highlighted Dr. Zainab Bagudu’s ongoing commitment to cancer awareness.
“I commend her for her tireless effort,” said Mrs. Tinubu, urging attendees to prioritise health. “Cancer affects us all, directly or indirectly. I just went last week to do a cancer checkup, and I advise everyone to get screened for breast cancer and other forms of cancer.
„It is crucial that we prioritise awareness and early detection and treatment. We must support research and initiatives that provide care and support those affected,“ she added.
Dr Zainab Bagudu, a prominent advocate, founder of Medicaid Cancer Foundation (MCF), and president-elect of the Union for International Cancer Control, stressed the significance of policy change and grassroots engagement in fighting cancer.
She said, “We have worked hard to promote awareness and encourage early detection. Both men and women must understand the risks and ensure regular screening.“
Also speaking at the event, the minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Abubakar Bagudu, lauded the election of Dr. Bagudu as President-elect of the Union for International Cancer Control.
“This achievement places Nigeria at the forefront of global cancer control,” he remarked.
The minister urged Nigerians to be proactive: “Prevention is key. Checking yourself can lead to better outcomes. Let’s honour this responsibility and show the world that Nigeria is ready to lead.”
Speaking also, the coordinating minister of the Economy, Mr Adebayo Olawale, echoed the health awareness message, saying, ‚Stay healthy, stay aware, and continue supporting this cause.‘
The event marked a decade of the foundation‘s commitment to raising awareness about cancer and supporting individuals impacted by cancer.
The WalkawayCancer at ten events had a 5km walk, symbolising solidarity with cancer patients and survivors.
