By Nkechi Eze
The Nigerian Air Force Officers’ Wives Association (NAFOWA) has intensified its campaign for early detection and regular breast cancer screening, stressing that prompt medical attention remains critical to improving outcomes and protecting the health of women and families.
The NAFOWA National President, Mrs Ngozi Aneke, made the call on Saturday at the Association’s Breast Cancer Awareness Walk and Lecture held in Abuja in commemoration of the 2026 International Breast Cancer Awareness Month.
Aneke, who described breast cancer as one of the most common cancers affecting women globally, said the campaign was aimed at encouraging women to take greater responsibility for their health by understanding the importance of screening, recognising possible warning signs and seeking appropriate medical attention without delay.
She said this year’s theme, “Every Story Is Unique, Every Journey Matters,” underscores the need to recognise the different experiences of women affected by breast cancer and provide them with the support, information and compassion required throughout their individual journeys.
According to her, the impact of breast cancer extends beyond the individual, affecting families, relationships, workplaces and communities, making awareness and prevention a collective responsibility.
“Awareness must go beyond merely a health conversation, but a collective responsibility. We must continue to encourage women to pay attention to their health, understand the importance of screening, recognise possible warning signs and seek appropriate medical attention without delay,” she said.
The NAFOWA President said the awareness programme was in line with her vision of an Association that is compassionate, inclusive and impactful, with the welfare and wellbeing of its members, their families and the wider community at the centre of its activities.
She stressed that healthcare should not only become a priority when illness occurs, but should be consciously protected through preventive measures, regular checks and timely intervention.
Aneke disclosed that NAFOWA had recently commissioned a Cancer Screening Centre Annex at 065 Nigerian Air Force Hospital, Asokoro, to complement the existing cancer screening facility at the Nigerian Air Force Hospital, Bill Clinton Drive.
She explained that the facility was part of deliberate efforts to bring essential screening services closer to NAFOWA members, their families and the wider community, while promoting a culture of early detection and preventive healthcare.
“This is not simply about establishing another facility. It is part of our deliberate effort to bring essential screening services closer to our members, their families and the wider community, while encouraging more people to make their health a priority,” she said.
She said the walk and lecture provided an important platform to increase visibility around breast cancer, encourage meaningful conversations and deepen public understanding of screening and early detection.
Aneke urged participants to take advantage of the programme by engaging the resource persons, asking questions and sharing the knowledge gained with others.
She also called for greater support for women at different stages of the breast cancer journey, noting that while some may be undergoing screening or treatment, others may be supporting loved ones.
She stressed that no woman should feel alone or ashamed to seek help, urging families and communities to create an environment where women can speak openly about their health concerns and access appropriate care.
The NAFOWA President appreciated members of the Officers’ Wives Association for their support and participation, as well as the medical team for its dedication and professionalism in supporting the initiative.
She also acknowledged the continued support of her husband, the Chief of the Air Staff, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, to the activities and programmes of NAFOWA.
Aneke said the Association would continue to pursue initiatives that promote the welfare and wellbeing of its members and families, while strengthening health awareness within the wider community.
“As we walk together today, let us remember that this is more than a walk. It is a testament of our commitment to healthier women, stronger families and a more health-conscious community,” she said.
She urged women to embrace regular screening and early detection, stressing that sustained awareness was necessary to ensure that vital information about breast cancer reaches more people and encourages timely action.
