The International Visitor Leadership Programme Alumni Association (IVLPAA), in partnership with the Amuwo-Odofin Local Council and Oncopadi, a Lagos-based cancer treatment hospital, gathered in Amuwo-Odofin has stressed the urgent need for awareness, early detection, and improved access to cancer care in Nigeria.

President of IVLPAA, Adedayo Oketola, who spoke at an event in Amuwo-Odofin to mark the 2025 World Cancer Day, under the theme, “United by Unique,” emphasised the importance of collaboration in the fight against cancer.

Oketola also called on individuals and organisations to take concrete steps in raising awareness and supporting those battling cancer.

But Chairman of Amuwo-Odofin Local Council, Dr Valentine Buraimoh, while reaffirming the government’s dedication to tackling cancer, called for sustained efforts in prevention and treatment.

He assured the community of the government’s efforts in raising awareness and improving healthcare services.

Also, the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Oncopadi, Dr Omolola Salako, while highlighting the disproportionate impact of cancer on women, stressed the importance of community-based awareness and screening.

“Unfortunately, women are disproportionately impacted by cancer globally, and Nigeria is no different.

“Breast and cervical cancers account for the majority of cases among women, and many factors, including low socio-economic status, lack of awareness, and limited access to healthcare, contribute to late diagnoses,” Salako said.

Meanwhile, beyond the physical battle, a psychiatrist and Medical Director at Pinnacle Medical Services, Dr Maymunah Yusuf Kadiri, shed light on the mental health challenges faced by cancer patients.

Kadiri, using the acronym CANCER, broke down the emotional struggles to mean: C – Coping with uncertainty, A – Adjustment difficulties, N – Negative emotions, C – Cognitive burden (“Chemo Brain”), E – Emotional and social isolation, and R – Role and identity changes.