Olufunso Amosun, the wife of former Ogun state governor, Sen. Ibikunle Amosun, has emphasized that cancer is a serious health challenge, but not a death sentence for patients. She made this statement at the flag-off of the 2026 free breast and cervical cancer screening held at the Federal Medical Center (FMC) in Abeokuta. The event aimed to provide lifesaving interventions and timely healthcare access to the public.
According to Amosun, the annual exercise goes beyond routine medical checks to offering essential healthcare services. She highlighted that breast cancer incidence in Nigeria has increased by nearly 300 percent over the past three decades. This information was based on data from the Global Cancer Observatory (GLOBOCAN) 2022, which reported 32,278 new breast cancer cases and 16,332 deaths in Nigeria.
Amosun stressed that early detection is crucial in combating high mortality rates. She noted that early-stage diagnosis yields survival rates exceeding 90 percent, compared to less than 30 percent for late-stage presentations. This emphasizes the importance of regular screening and timely medical intervention.
Reflecting on the 2025 edition of the screening event, Amosun revealed that over 600 women benefited from the program, with 22 individuals identified with breast-related issues. Out of these, 11 women diagnosed with suspicious breast lumps underwent free lumpectomy surgeries and post-operative care funded by the UPLIFT Development Foundation in November 2025.
The UPLIFT Development Foundation, established in 2012, has focused on cancer awareness, screening, and equipping local care facilities. The foundation has also undertaken broader humanitarian efforts targeting women, widows, and vulnerable groups across Ogun State. Amosun urged participating women to prioritize preventive care and act as ambassadors by spreading awareness within their communities.
Medical Consultant and Surgeon at FMC, Ebenezer Nkom, also spoke at the event, emphasizing the importance of early clinical detection in preventing mortality. He de-emphasized the efficacy of native remedial measures, stressing that medical interventions are essential in addressing cancer.
The event aimed to create awareness and provide accessible healthcare services to the public. Key stakeholders and participants acknowledged the significance of collaborations between organizations and healthcare institutions in promoting public health.
Key points
- Early detection of cancer yields survival rates exceeding 90 percent.
- Breast cancer incidence in Nigeria has surged by nearly 300 percent over the past three decades.
- The UPLIFT Development Foundation has focused on cancer awareness, screening, and equipping local care facilities since its inception in 2012.
