The Wife of the Governor of Ogun State, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, has emphasised the importance of early cancer detection, urging individuals who have received key messages on cancer prevention and treatment to actively spread awareness within their communities.

Speaking during a cancer awareness and screening programme organised by the Ogun State Ministry of Health and Ajose Foundation to commemorate World Cancer Day at the June 12 Cultural Center, Abeokuta, Mrs. Abiodun stressed that early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes and saves lives.

She described cancer as a deeply personal journey that affects not only patients but also their families emotionally, financially, and in various other ways, noting that the theme for World Cancer Day 2025-2027, "United by Unique" highlights the need for a people-centred approach to cancer care that would ensure that patients receive individualised support and empathy.

"Ogun State has adopted a multi-sectoral approach to cancer advocacy by collaborating with traditional and religious institutions to take awareness campaigns to the grassroots. By engaging trusted voices within communities, we can dispel myths, encourage early screening, and ultimately save more lives," she said.

The Wife of the Governor observed that the burden of the disease is often disproportionately borne by the less privileged, identifying the need for concerted efforts of stakeholders towards affordable cancer care. 

She, however, added that beyond early detection, individuals and families affected by cancer require comprehensive support, including access to counseling, palliative care, and financial assistance to ease the cost of treatment, saying the goal 

In her welcome remarks, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, in stated that the Ogun State Government, under the leadership of Governor Dapo Abiodun, recognizes cancer as a major public health concern and has prioritized early detection, improved access to treatment, and patient support.

She said various initiatives such as screening programs, community outreach, and partnerships with healthcare organizations have been implemented to ensure that no resident is left behind in the fight against cancer.

Dr. Coker implored residents in the State to embrace the Health Insurance Scheme which would covers yearly cancer screenings for beneficiaries, calling for collective action to reduce the burden of cancer in the state, particularly through increased awareness, patients support, advocacy for better healthcare policies, and encouragement of regular screenings.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfare, Honourable Adijat Adeleye, advised women refrain from remaining silent about their health and to take advantage of screening services available to them. 

"Breast and cervical cancers are among the leading causes of death among women, yet early detection can make all the difference. Do not wait until it is too late. Please get screened for breast and cervical cancer and prioritise your health," she urged.

Some beneficiaries of the screening programme including Mrs. Samiat Afuape, and Mrs. Selimot Osho, who expressed their appreciation to the state government for the initiative, described the exercise as an eye-opener, noting that it had afforded them the opportunity to now understand the importance of regular check-ups. 

Another participant, Mr. Adekunle Akinola commended the organisers for making the screening accessible to all, while assuring of his willingness to follow the adviser of the Wife of the Governor by becoming an awareness ambassador for early diagnosis of prostate in his community.