By Nkechi Eze
The Defence and Police Officers Wives Association DEPOWA, joins individuals and organizations around the world in recognizing World Cancer Day 2025. Led by it’s president Mrs, Oghogho Musa Gwabin, the Association, as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility initiative, undertook the project to address the knowledge gap surrounding cancer, and dispel common misconceptions about the disease.
World Cancer Day is observed every Feb. 4 globally, to create awareness about the disease. The theme for 2025 is “United by Unique.”
Each case of cancer is unique, in part, because no two individuals impacted by cancer are the same. Not only does cancer encompass over 200 different diseases, but each person’s life situation differs in terms of socio-economic background, culture, values, and preferences. To better address these differences, DEPOWA joins the global community in marking this year’s World Cancer Day with an awareness symposium that drew experts from the medical field.
The event which took place the Armed Forces Officers’ mess, Asokoro Abuja, had in attendance various health experts.
Mrs. Oghogho Musa Gwabin, the President, Defence and Police Officers Wives Association DEPOWA, in her remarks called for collective efforts to raise awareness, funds, and support in the fight against cancer.
“In 2022, an estimated 20 million new cancer cases and 9.7 million deaths were reported, with most deaths occurring in-low and middle-income countries like Nigeria, where there are inadequate finances for priority cancer and palliative care services.
Mrs Gwabin further noted that the 2025 campaign needed a paradigm shift in cancer care and health systems towards a people-centered approach.
She also said the association had provided several rounds of free cancer screening programmes.
“As an association, DEPOWA has lent our voices. Over the years, we have organized free cancer screenings such as pap smear and mammograms, financially supported cancer treatments for men, women and children, conducted outreaches and health walks to raise awareness and encourage the adoption of a healthy lifestyle, early detection of cancer and support the treatment of those affected among others.
“This year’s world cancer day themed “United by Unique” highlights the fact that each person has a unique story, need, perspective and experience which must be factored into their care and our collective efforts at defeating this monster.
While appreciating the healthcare professionals, Mrs Gwabin noted that the global cancer burden continues to escalate, imposing immense physical, emotional, and financial hardship on individuals, families, communities, and healthcare systems. But by embracing empathy and compassion in patient care, a more inclusive, effective, and sustainable approach to cancer management can be fostered, ultimately improving the lives of those affected.
While extending her gratitude to the First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Founder of Renewed Hope Initiative, Her Excellency Senator OluremiTinubu Commander of the Order of the Niger, she noted that her motherly inspiration and continuous guidance can never be taken for granted, as DEPOWA reaffirms its collective determination to fight cancer.
“We acknowledge the progress made, but we also recognize the work that still needs to be done. Together we can build a future devoid of cancer.” She said.
A medical director and fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Dr. Chito Nwana in her lecture, encouraged women to imbibe the culture of regular medical checks.
According to her, “A lot of people here in Nigeria do wellness checks for their child from when they are born till they are five years old. Once the child is five, they stop, no more vaccines, no more regular medical checks. This is wrong and should stop.”
Speaking further, she encouraged women to have a routine place where they do their wellness checks and mandate it for themselves.
“It is so expensive to take care of illness, Why use your money for health issues when you can prevent those conditions by making healthy and better decisions.
“Cervical cancer is one of the most common cancers in Nigeria and it has killed many women. But, you know, it is the most preventable cancer that exists, if there’s one cancer you should not get, it is cervical cancer.
While encouraging women to learn how to manage stress, she noted that chronic stress leads to serious health issues.
“You need to learn to manage stress. Sometimes you can’t change your stressor, sometimes you can’t eliminate your stressor, but the one thing you have control of is your reaction to your stressor and how you adapt to your stressor, also, how you know your own point of mindfulness.
“Stress is so powerful that it can change into a physical symptom if you don’t take care of it. Chronic stress leads to serious health issues. And this is just not a saying, this has been proven by science.” She said.
Earlier in her welcome address, Pharmacist Mrs. Fatima Salihu noted that every individual has a role to play in the fight against cancer. “This theme reminds us that every individual—whether a patient, survivor, caregiver, medical professional, or advocate—has a unique story and role in the fight against cancer. It is in embracing our differences and working together that we become stronger, more resilient, and more impactful in this battle.
According to Pharm. Fatima, the President of DEPOWA has been engaging in various activities since February 1st, including fitness campaigns and humanitarian outreach. Notably, she has provided support, comfort, and financial assistance to 52 cancer patients at FMC Jabi and hosted a sensitization and knowledge-sharing session to raise awareness.
“Through today’s discussions, and expert insights, we aim to empower communities, inspire action, and reinforce the importance of early detection, equitable healthcare, and continuous research. No one fights cancer alone, and by standing together, we create a world where hope, strength, and progress prevail.” She said.
The event showcased a cultural dance promoting cancer awareness and the launch of DEPOWA’s new working uniform.
This distinctive uniform, made from Nigerian fabric, is designed for various activities such as charity outreach, condolence visits, event commissioning, and exercise sessions. The introduction of this working uniform aims to provide an alternative to the ceremonial uniform, reserving it for special occasions.
