The Office of the First Lady’s Coordinator, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, has organized a cancer awareness walk called “Walk Against Cancer” to spread knowledge about the disease, encourage early detection, and inform people that cancer is preventable and not a death sentence.
The walk was organized by Sally Suleman, the Special Adviser to the Edo State Governor on Sustainable Development Goals, in partnership with the Office of the First Lady and the Edo State Ministry of Health. Participants included government officials and medical professionals, among others, and took place from Akenzua Junction to the Vegetable Market on Airport Road in Benin City.
Along with her team and other interested parties, Mrs. Anani underlined the significance of the cancer awareness walk. According to her, cancer is still a serious public health issue in Nigeria, and early identification and routine checkups are essential for saving lives.
She claims that the purpose of the walk against cancer is to inform people that the disease is preventable. The death penalty has been lifted. We’re here today to raise awareness and show people that cancer is a disease that can be cured. Cancer is now avoidable and curable; therefore, the days of being afraid when you hear the phrase are over. We are advising folks to schedule routine checkups. Women should have breast and self-examinations.
Mrs. Anani highlighted the State Government’s commitment to improving healthcare services, including cancer treatment and management. She assured the public that the Government is working tirelessly to provide access to quality healthcare services, including cancer screening and treatment.
“We just had a free screening for cervical cancer last week, sponsored by the Government of Edo State. We are here to tell people and let them know that we are a government that cares. We care for our people and as a government, we are trying to bring healthcare to the people. So, programmes are going to be put out there to create awareness for people.”
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomole highlighted the essence of the Walk Against Cancer, saying, “Basically, today’s walk is to enlighten people about cancer. Let people know that cancer is real. If you feel something unusual in your body, go to the nearest hospital. Seek regular check-up, diets, exercise, consume high-fiber foods, less junk food, be very conscious of your environment, and early detection is key.”
Mrs. Irenose Ihensekhien, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, spoke on behalf of Barr. Marie Bisi Idaomi, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, who underlined the need for leading a healthy lifestyle, exercising, and getting regular checkups as ways to prevent cancer.
A number of events were planned to honor World Cancer Day, which is observed on February 4 worldwide, including the cancer awareness walk. Many participants expressed gratitude for the government’s efforts to raise awareness about cancer, and the walk was well received by the general public.
