Targets 1,000 persons in S/East
The Federal Government, yesterday, flagged off a nationwide cancer awareness and free screening programme in Ebonyi State, targeting 1,000 persons to be drawn from five states in the South-East.
 
The programme was launched yesterday at the Alex Ekwueme Federal University Teaching Hospital, Abakaliki (AEFUTHA) as part of activities marking the 2026 World Cancer Day commemoration.
 
Speaking at the event, Governor Francis Nwifuru, represented by the Deputy Governor, Patricia Obila, commended the Federal Government for choosing the state for the flag-off and reaffirmed the state’s commitment to healthcare development.
 
She highlighted investments by the state government in modern medical equipment, oxygen plants, and welfare support for health workers, including the provision of official vehicles to doctors to enhance emergency response and service delivery.
 
The deputy governor assured that local council authorities had been mobilised to create awareness and encourage residents to take advantage of the free screening exercise, emphasising that early detection makes treatment easier, more cost-effective and life-saving.
 
She urged residents across the state and the South-East region to participate. The initiative is expected to boost cancer awareness, strengthen early diagnosis and improve access to treatment services in the region, in line with the Federal Government’s broader goal of achieving equitable and affordable healthcare for all Nigerians.