AWCAA expands fight against cancer with launch in Nigeria

…Promises to Strengthen Advocacy and Patient Support.

The African Women’s Cancer Awareness Association (AWCAA) has officially launched in Nigeria, marking a significant milestone in the fight against cancer. The launch event, held at the Continental Hotel in Abuja, was attended by cancer survivors, health practitioners, advocates, and government dignitaries united in their commitment to improving cancer awareness, prevention, treatment, and care in Nigeria.

Founded over two decades ago in the United States, AWCAA has played a pivotal role in supporting African women through breast cancer examinations, treatment, and awareness campaigns. With over twenty-one cancer awareness missions across Africa, the association has donated mammogram machines to hospitals and improved cancer care in Nigeria, Tanzania, Cameroon, Sierra Leone, and Sudan. By expanding into Nigeria, AWCAA aims to bridge the gap in cancer education, screening, and treatment, ensuring more women receive the support they need.

Leading up to the official launch, AWCAAN hosted a pre-launch event in Lagos on February 8th at Lo Studio, Victoria Island. The event, a women’s wellness brunch, featured a range of activities, including a Pilates session and a panel discussion with lifestyle influencers Angel Obasi and Joycee Awosika. They engaged in an insightful conversation on Body, Mind, and Beauty: The Self-Care Blueprint. Notable guests, including Nichole Chikwe, were also in attendance.

The official launch event featured activities, including a panel session on Nigeria’s readiness and response to cancer, moderated by Dr Emmanuella Nwachukwu, with esteemed panellists including Dr Tessy Ahmadu, Dr Nwamaka Lasebikan, Dr Uchechukwu Nwokwu, and Hadiza A-Arome; a fashion parade featuring cancer survivors, symbolising strength, resilience, and hope in the fight against cancer; awards were presented to the keynote speakers to recognise their contributions to cancer advocacy; and the official launch ceremony, led by AWCAA Nigeria’s Vice President, Dr. Abiola Shotunde.

Speaking at the event, H.E. Dr. Zainab Bagudu, CEO & Founder of Medicaid Cancer Foundation and President-Elect of the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC), emphasised the importance of collaborative efforts in reducing cancer mortality rates. “AWCAA Nigeria has come at a crucial time when collective action is needed to lower cancer-related deaths. I wish the association success in its mission to save lives.”

In her keynote address, H.E. Prof. Ngozi Odu, Deputy Governor of Rivers State, also highlighted the urgency of tackling cancer in Nigeria. “Cancer is a growing public health concern that requires a united front. We must all ensure access to education, early detection, and quality treatment.”

Delivering her welcome address and an overview of AWCAA’s impact, Dr. Ify Nwabukwu, President and Founder of AWCAA, reiterated the need for a collaborative approach to cancer prevention and care. “Cancer is a family affair and must be treated as such. While early detection has been proven to reduce mortality rates, it is critical for stakeholders, including government agencies, healthcare professionals, and organisations like AWCAA, to work together to sustain the fight against this disease.”

With its official presence in Nigeria, AWCAA will intensify its advocacy, screening programs, and patient support efforts, ensuring more women receive the care and education they need to combat cancer effectively.