The Ogun State Government has unveiled a state-of-the-art Breast Cancer Screening Clinic under the First Ladies Against Cancer (FLAC) initiative, with a target to provide free cancer screening for 10,000 women across the state within the next two years.
The clinic, located at Oba Ademola Hospital and Maternity, Abeokuta, was inaugurated on Tuesday by the wife of the state governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun, as part of efforts to enhance early detection and treatment of breast cancer among women.
Speaking during the launch, Mrs. Abiodun described the project as a collaborative effort involving her Ajose Foundation, the Ogun State Government, the First Ladies Against Cancer Initiative led by Barr. Chioma Uzodinma, wife of the Imo State governor, and healthcare company Roche.
“We are setting a target to screen 10,000 women across Ogun State within the next two years, entirely free of charge,” Abiodun announced.
“This initiative is about saving lives through early detection and bringing screening services closer to women, especially in underserved areas.”
She noted that the clinic would serve as a referral hub, ensuring that women with suspicious findings are promptly referred to tertiary hospitals for further evaluation and care.
The initiative, unveiled during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, aims to tackle a disease that remains the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Nigerian women, accounting for one in four female cancer cases nationwide, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
‘Don’t Wait for Symptoms’ – FLAC Chairperson Urges Women
Speaking at the event, FLAC Chairperson and wife of the Imo State Governor, Barr. Chioma Uzodinma, emphasized the importance of early detection, lamenting that many women present cancer cases only at advanced stages.
“Do not wait for symptoms. Do not let fear hold you down. Early detection saves lives,” Uzodinma advised.
“FLAC is committed to expanding cancer screening access nationwide until no woman is left behind.”
She revealed that the coalition had already educated over 625,000 women and screened thousands across Nigeria, transforming survivors into advocates for cancer awareness.
Stakeholders Commend Ogun Initiative
Also speaking, Dr. Zainab Baugudu, former FLAC Chairperson and wife of the Minister of Budget and Planning, urged women to regularly self-examine their breasts and seek medical help when they notice abnormalities.
Dr. Ladi Hameed, General Manager of Roche, described the project as a model of effective partnership in tackling cancer, calling on more stakeholders to join efforts in reducing cancer cases nationwide.
The Ogun State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker, commended Mrs. Abiodun and partners for the initiative, pledging sustained government support through public health education and community outreach programs.
According to national data, Nigeria records over 128,000 new cancer cases and 80,000 deaths annually, with breast and cervical cancers leading among women. Experts say the new Ogun screening clinic is a crucial step toward early diagnosis and improved survival outcomes.
