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Over 200 IDPs Benefit from NCFRMI, Cormode Cancer Foundation Cancer Awareness Initiative for women, Girls in FCT

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By Joel Ajayi


More than 200 internally displaced persons (IDPs) participated in a cancer awareness campaign organized by the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) in collaboration with the Cormode Cancer Foundation. The initiative aimed to educate young people about cancer prevention and early detection.


During the awareness program held for IDP women and girls at the Durumi IDP camp, Tijani Aliyu, the Federal Commissioner for the Commission, emphasized that the initiative would enhance the health and well-being of displaced persons, reduce the stigma associated with cancer, and empower young people to become advocates for cancer awareness.


“When you provide information, you provide knowledge for the younger generation at an early stage, which means 50% of the problem is being solved,” Aliyu stated. “That’s why we have chosen to focus on children. Cancer is a deadly disease, and this awareness initiative aims to equip young people with the understanding they need about what cancer is.”


He added, “I hope the knowledge we impart today will help our children better understand cancer. We will not stop here; we have over 100 campaigns across the nation, and we will ensure that IDPs and refugees benefit from this opportunity.”


Aliyu commended the Cormode Cancer Foundation for their partnership, which aligns with the Commission’s goal of improving the health and well-being of displaced persons. 


“We are delighted to partner with the Cormode Cancer Foundation to address the critical issue of cancer awareness in our IDP camps and host communities. By educating the youth about cancer, we aim to foster a healthier future and reduce the stigma associated with this disease.”


He, however said that the commission will not spare any resources toward well being of IDPs, Refugees in the Country: “We are not going to stop here,we have more than 100 IDPs across the nations, we will make sure that we cover all to ensure the IDPs and Refuge benefit from this opportunity.”


In her address, Dr. Denise Ejoh, founder of the Cormode Cancer Foundation, explained that the project is dedicated to making a difference in the lives of those affected by cancer, particularly in vulnerable communities. “If we don’t teach children early about cancer, who will inform them when they or their communities are affected? Currently, one in two people will be diagnosed with cancer worldwide,” she remarked.


Dr. Ejoh continued, “This campaign is now a global initiative, encouraging better knowledge of cancer among everyone. If you teach children, they will educate their parents. Teaching children about cancer can significantly improve their ability to recognize it early if it arises in their lives.”


During the event, the Cormode Foundation launched the Cormode Cancer Champions Clubs in secondary schools across the country to further educate young people about cancer prevention and early detection. Dr. Ejoh revealed that the clubs will serve as platforms for disseminating critical information, providing emotional support, and fostering a community of informed and proactive individuals.

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APC Youth Leader, Health Minister, Others Champion “Going Pink Walk” for Breast Cancer Awareness in Abuja

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Joel Ajayi

It was a vibrant gathering of energetic young men and women across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Saturday in Abuja, as they joined the “Progress in Pink Walk”, a non-competitive awareness march organized by the All-Progressives Congress (APC) Youth Wing to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

The event, themed “Walk for Hope, Walk for Life,” was commenced at The Nest — A Place Where Greatness is Hatched, an over 4 kilometres walk aimed at encouraging early detection, promoting timely medical intervention, and offering hope to those affected by breast cancer.

Leading the walk was the APC National Youth Leader, Dr. Dayo Israel, who has remained consistent in championing initiatives that promote youth empowerment, health consciousness, and community impact.

Over the years, Israel has spearheaded several programs designed to enhance the capacity and wellbeing of young Nigerians.

Globally, October is recognized as Breast Cancer Awareness Month — a period dedicated to increasing awareness, encouraging prevention, and supporting those battling the disease. The APC Youth Wing’s initiative aligns with this global campaign, demonstrating the party’s ongoing commitment to public health advocacy and youth-driven change.

Speaking after the walk, an elated Dr. Dayo Israel explained that the initiative was organized to create awareness among women, both young and old, on the importance of knowing their bodies and seeking medical attention early.

“We want women to know their breasts so well that if anything unusual happens, they act quickly.

“Cancer doesn’t occur overnight it develops over time. awareness, and early detection are key to saving lives,” he said.

He added that the walk also sought to promote fitness as a vital component of a healthy lifestyle and to encourage women to adopt positive habits that support their wellbeing and happiness.

In his remarks, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako commended the APC Youth Wing for taking proactive steps to raise awareness about a critical health concern.

“With this step you have taken today, more Nigerians will become aware of the dangers of late detection.

“Unfortunately, eight to nine out of ten breast cancer cases in Nigeria are detected late — a situation we must change through constant awareness and screening,” he said.


He emphasized the importance of prevention, urging Nigerians to take their health seriously through regular check-ups, healthy living, and avoidance of risk factors like smoking.

Also speaking, the President and CEO of the Nigerian Cancer Society, Prof. Abidemi Omonisi, noted that breast cancer remains one of the most prevalent forms of cancer in Nigeria, accounting for up to 40–50% of all cancer cases.

“Breast cancer remains a major public health challenge. Exercise plays a vital role not only in prevention but also in improving outcomes for people living with cancer and other non-communicable diseases such as diabetes and hypertension,” he said.

Prof. Omonisi stressed the need for a community-based response to cancer similar to the national efforts used to combat HIV/AIDS.

“We must involve everyone  from schools and youth groups to community organizations  to build resilience and eliminate the fear and stigma surrounding cancer,” he added.

He praised the APC Youth Wing for leading the charge, noting that young people, with their creativity and innovation, are uniquely positioned to drive impactful awareness campaigns both online and offline.

The “Progress in Pink Walk” concluded with participants pledging to continue spreading the message of early detection, regular screening, and healthy living underscoring that together, Nigerians can defeat breast cancer through awareness, unity, and action.

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