The First Lady of Imo State and Chairperson of First Ladies Against Cancer (FLAC), Barrister Chioma Uzodimma, has called for stronger collaboration and increased investment in cancer prevention and treatment across Nigeria.
She made the call during a public health awareness walk in Owerri to mark World Cancer Day 2026, themed “United by Unique.”
According to her, tackling inequalities in access to cancer care requires collective action by government, private sector partners, healthcare professionals, and local communities.
Barr. Uzodimma stressed that sustained awareness, early detection, and reliable financing mechanisms are critical to reducing Nigeria’s growing cancer burden, noting that many lives can be saved through timely screening and treatment.
The awareness walk commenced at the Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Centre (EIICC) and proceeded along the Port Harcourt Road corridor in Owerri.
It attracted government officials, healthcare workers, students, civil society groups, and community leaders, who displayed banners and placards promoting early screening, healthy lifestyles, and support for cancer patients and survivors.
The procession terminated at the Imo State Specialist Hospital, Umuguma, where health officials reiterated the importance of public education and early diagnosis.
The Permanent Secretary of the Imo State Ministry of Health, Mr. Adino Kennedy, urged participants to act as community advocates, emphasising that many cancers are treatable when detected early.
Also speaking, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Chioma Vivian Egu, highlighted the need for sustained public health campaigns to improve outcomes, while the Chairman of the Nigerian Cancer Society, Imo State Chapter, Dr. Okechukwu Duru, called for intensified nationwide awareness efforts.
The Society’s state secretary commended FLAC and partner organisations for their support.
Other stakeholders present included the Medical Director of the Imo State Specialist Hospital, Dr. Dare; Dr. Chima Oprataji of the Heart and Roses Cancer Advocacy Foundation; Dr. Chinomso Patricia Dozie; Mr. Victor Ekejuba of the David Omenukor Cancer Foundation; Prof. Ikechukwu Nosike Simplus Dozie; Mrs. Linda Ewulum of Everight Diagnostics Owerri; Prof. I. N. S. Dozie of Kingsley Ozumba Mbadiwe University; Dr. Norbert Ajiro, representing the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (Imo State); and Dr. Chika Ogwudire, Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association (Imo State), among others.
The event formed part of ongoing national and sub-national advocacy initiatives aimed at improving cancer awareness, prevention, and access to quality treatment services across Nigeria.
Written by Niran Odufayo