Kwara First Lady, Ministry of Health Lead Campaign Against Cancer

Kwara State First Lady, Ambassador (Prof.) Olufolake AbdulRazaq, has reiterated the commitment of the state government to the fight against cancer and other life-threatening diseases, stressing that early detection and sustained public enlightenment remain vital in reducing the burden of the disease.

She made this known on Tuesday at the 2025 Cancer Awareness and Screening Programme held at the Banquet Hall, Ilorin.

The event was organised by the Kwara State Ministry of Health in collaboration with the Office of the First Lady, Ajike People’s Support Centre, and Bio Ventures for Global Health (BVGH).

This year’s edition focused on Liver, Prostate, and Breast Cancer, featuring lectures, free medical screening, and health education sessions.

The programme also included a youth engagement component — the First Lady’s Cancer Awareness Challenge, a debate and prose competition for secondary and tertiary institutions across the state, with prizes and awards presented to outstanding participants.

In her keynote address, Prof. AbdulRazaq, who also serves as the Chairperson of the Nigerian Governors’ Spouses Forum, emphasized that cancer prevention and control require collective effort from individuals, families, and institutions.

She explained that the state government, through the Ministry of Health, has been investing in diagnostic equipment, capacity building, and public awareness campaigns aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and early detection.

“Cancer remains a major health challenge globally, and we must confront it with knowledge, early diagnosis, and the right healthcare infrastructure. In Kwara, our commitment is to ensure that no life is lost to ignorance or lack of access to timely care,” she said.

Delivering the welcome address, the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Amina Ahmed El-Imam, outlined the strategic initiatives of the state government to strengthen health systems and improve access to quality healthcare.

She noted that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq’s administration has prioritized healthcare funding, revitalization of hospitals, and continuous training of medical personnel to enhance diagnostic and preventive capacities across the state.

Dr. El-Imam further stressed the importance of regular health checkups and behavioural change, noting that poor lifestyle habits and delayed medical attention often contribute to rising cancer cases. “Our people must understand that prevention is the most effective strategy. The earlier a disease is detected, the better the chances of successful treatment,” she stated.

A medical lecture on Preventive Strategies for Cancer was delivered by Dr. Anthony Ajiboye, a General Surgeon at the Kwara State University Teaching Hospital (KWASUTH). He highlighted the role of nutrition, physical activity, and reduced exposure to harmful substances in lowering cancer risk.

The event drew participation from top government officials, health experts, traditional leaders, and development partners, including the Commissioner for Solid Minerals, Hon. Olaitan Buraimoh; Commissioner for Agriculture and Rural Development, Dr. Afeez Abolore; Commissioner for Special Duties, Hon. John Bello; and representatives of the World Health Organization (WHO) and BVGH.

The First Lady’s campaign, alongside the Ministry of Health’s efforts, reinforced Kwara’s commitment to building a cancer-aware society, where citizens take proactive steps towards prevention, screening, and treatment.