Abuja: Mrs Mernan Oluyede, President of the Defence and Police Officers’ Wives Association (DEPOWA), has called for urgent action to expand access to cancer care and eliminate barriers preventing timely diagnosis and treatment. Oluyede made this call during the World Cancer Day Summit organized by DEPOWA in Abuja, as part of activities marking the 2026 World Cancer Day. She highlighted that despite progress in cancer awareness and treatment, many Nigerians still face challenges in accessing care due to cost, location, and limited health infrastructure.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Oluyede emphasized that World Cancer Day is more than a symbolic event, serving as a global call to action to tackle the devastating impact of cancer on individuals, families, and communities. She noted that the 2026 theme, ‘United by Unique,’ underscores the personal nature of each cancer journey, stressing that unity among institutions and communities is crucial for achieving lasting solutions. Oluyede praised sister associations under the DEPOWA platform for their collaboration in hosting the summit, viewing it as a strong statement of solidarity in the fight against cancer.
She also acknowledged the ongoing national efforts to enhance cancer care, emphasizing the importance of advocacy, grassroots awareness, and early detection to complement government initiatives. Oluyede stressed the need for regular screening, promotion of preventive care, and the strengthening of support systems for patients and their families. She reiterated that DEPOWA would continue to advocate for cancer awareness, support survivors, and honor the memories of those lost to the disease.
Mrs Safiyyah Shaibu, President of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), highlighted that frequent deployments and service-related pressures complicate access to timely and continuous treatment for military households. She called for care models that recognize the unique circumstances of military families, advocating for sustained advocacy, awareness, and psychosocial support.
Mrs Aisha Abbas, National President of the Naval Officers’ Wives Association (NOWA), reinforced the World Cancer Day theme, emphasizing the importance of placing people at the center of cancer care. She noted that unity among military families is a powerful force in confronting the disease and supporting those affected.
Representing the Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association (NAFOWA), Dr. Modupe Ogunsina highlighted the shared resilience of military officers’ wives and the need for collective action. She urged women to prioritize health by making cancer screening a routine practice, as prevention and early detection are crucial to saving lives.
Mrs Elizabeth Egbetokun, President of the Police Officers’ Wives Association (POWA), pointed out that fear and misinformation are major obstacles to early cancer detection. She emphasized that awareness and regular screening are effective tools in changing perceptions and ensuring timely medical intervention.
Dr. Uchechukwu Shagaya, a Senior Consultant Oncologist, advised women to adopt healthy lifestyles for cancer prevention and stressed the importance of early detection for successful treatment outcomes. She encouraged regular and age-appropriate cancer screening, prompt medical attention, and adherence to treatment plans, noting that early-detected cancers are often treatable and compatible with long, productive lives.