The President, Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), Mrs Oghogho Musa, has called for a unified front in tackling the menace of cancer in the society.
The President DEPOWA stated this during the commemoration of the 2025 World Cancer Day, with the theme, “Unified by Unique”, on Wednesday, 5 February 2024, at the Armed Forces Officers’ Mess Abuja.
She emphasised that the fight against cancer required collective efforts to raise awareness, fund treatment, and support affected individuals.
The DEPOWA president stated that the financial burden cancer places on families were high and out-of-pocket healthcare expenses, particularly in low – and middle-income countries like Nigeria.
“The battle against cancer calls for collective efforts to raise awareness, fund, and support in this fight,” she said.
“No one should face cancer alone, and it is through unity, love, and compassion that we will make the greatest strides, as our theme, ‘Unified by Unique’,” she said.
Mrs Musa also commended healthcare professionals for their dedication to exceptional care and urged individuals to prioritize early detection through regular screenings.
In her presentation, Dr. Chito Nelson, CEO of Arabella Women’s Health/Tabitha Medical Centre, stressed the importance of collaborative efforts in bridging the gap in cancer.
Mrs. Fatima Salihu, a pharmacologist and member of DEPOWA, lauded the efforts of the association and emphasised the importance of preventive measures.
Salihu said that the standing cancer screening initiative launched by DEPOWA had ensured that at least 20 women undergo mammograms and screening monthly.
She added that DEPOWA had expanded its cancer prevention efforts to include fitness campaigns and also funding of medical expenses of 52 cancer patients at the Federal Medical Centre, Jabi.
“Our goal is to empower communities, inspire action, and reinforce the importance of early detection, equitable healthcare, and continuous research,” she said.
Mrs. Chinyere Ifezue, a breast cancer survivor, recounted her journey and the challenges of seeking treatment.
She urged society to show more empathy and support to those battling the disease instead of judging them.
Another survivor, Mrs Temitope Samuel, also made an appeal for members of the society to always show love to victims of cancer.
Highlights of the event include : presentation of souvenirs to resource persons, lunching of a DEPOWA work uniform, and group photographs.
