As part of activities to mark this year’s World Cancer Day and in a bid to raise awareness about prevention and treatment of the scourge, the Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA) has applauded the ongoing efforts to combat Cancer in Nigeria while advocating for improved access to quality healthcare services.
NAOWA, while recognizing the global initiative to raise awareness about cancer prevention and treatment, emphasized the urgency of addressing the burden of cancer within the Barracks Community and Nigeria at large.
Speaking during a one-day summit with the theme: “Closing the Care Gap” today, Monday, 5 February 2024 at the Command Officers Mess 1, Asokoro, Abuja, the President NAOWA, Mrs Mariya Abiodun Lagbaja emphasized the significance of World Cancer Day as a platform to unite in the fight against cancer and the need to bridge the gap in Cancer management, in order to prevent further deaths and disabilities.
Mrs Lagbaja avvered that the theme for this year’s World Cancer Day which is very apt, highlightens major gaps concerning the care for Cancer patients around the globe and the limited awareness regarding the Disease.
NAOWA President stressed that most especially, lack of awareness prevents many people from seeking early diagnosis and prompt treatment hence the need for the summit as part of NAOWA’s Corporate Social Responsibility, to raise awareness, and contribute to the efforts of other International and Local Organizations.
The President noted that, the summit was aimed at creating a platform for open dialogue, where participants can share experiences, learn from experts, and ask questions and ensure that anyone on treatment, gets adequate support to fight the Disease.
Mrs Lagbaja therefore, called for collective action in the fight against cancer, regular screening, support to those affected by cancer underscoring the NAOWA enduring resolve to alleviate the burden of the disease and foster a healthier society.
In his remarks at the summit, the Special Guest of Honour, the Chief of Administration (Army), Major General Ohwonigho Akpor emphasized the importance of early detention and preventive care as critical components in the battle against cancer, calling for greater investment in awareness campaigns and screening programme.
General Akpor said the summit which often observed on 4th February yearly was to raised awareness on the impact of cancer on individuals and community worldwide. The Chief of Administration stated that the summit is an opportunity to reflect on the efforts made so far to fight cancer, and commit to continue progress in the future. He emphasized that the gathering has created awareness, ignited hope for cancer free future.
The Special Guest of Honour said the burden of cancer in Nigeria and among army personnel is huge and called for collective action through screening and vaccination. He said the with the lectures during the summit, the nation is at the right course to achieving the objectives of the theme of the summit aimed at identifying and addressing the barriers that exists from many people around the world in assessing the care needs.
He called on the Barracks community to always engage regular screening for early detention through NA healthcare facilities across the nation.
The summit featured lectures from erudite resource persons on Cancer prevention, management and treatment followed by a question-and-answer session including testimonies from Cancer survivors, amongst others.
