By Bashir Bello Dollars
In a spirited effort to mark Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Fifth Chukker, The Pink Foundation, and Raise Foundation joined forces to organize a one day public enlightenment campaign aimed at educating women in Maraban Jos on the prevention and early detection of breast and cervical cancer.
Held at the Maraban Jos Primary Health Care Centre, the event drew a diverse crowd from across the community and outside the shores of Nigeria including health professionals, traditional leaders, and advocacy groups.
The campaign focused on empowering women with knowledge and tools to safeguard their health, particularly through self-examination and timely medical intervention.
Representing Raise Foundation, Dr. Kudirat Abdulganiyu delivered a powerful message on behalf of Hajiya Amina Abubakar Bello, wife of the former Niger State Governor. She emphasized the importance of regular breast self-examinations and early detection, noting that the high mortality rate from cancer in sub-Saharan Africa stems largely from poor awareness and inadequate access to treatment.
“Women must take charge of their health. Early detection saves lives, and we must break the silence around breast and cervical cancer,” Dr. Abdulganiyu urged.
The event featured key voices from the Non governmental organisations including Hajiya Rabi Saulawa, Chairperson of Jam’iyar Matan Arewa, and the Village Head of Maraban Jos, both of whom commended the initiative and encouraged continued collaboration between health organizations and local communities.
“What we are doing here today is an important awareness campaign aimed at enlightening women to come out and seek for ways of preventing themselves from Cancer” Hajiya Saulawa said.One of the beneficiaries of the free cancer screening, Halima Maraban Jos expressed heartfelt gratitude.
“I want to thank Fifth Chukker and Raise Foundation for this7 gesture. We are very happy, and I can assure you that we will continue to implement what we have been taught today.”
The campaign wasn’t just about medical facts it also celebrated community spirit.
Highlights of the event included a drama presentation, dances, and a vibrant march pass by pupils of Access Bank Fifth Chukker Model School, showcasing the role of youth in health advocacy.
Organizers say this is just the beginning, with plans to expand the awareness drive to other underserved communities across Kaduna State and beyond.
