Segun Atanda/
In a move to strengthen the fight against cervical cancer in Nigeria, the First Lady of the Federal Republic, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has donated a staggering N1 billion to the National Cancer Fund through her Renewed Hope Initiative.
The announcement came during a courtesy visit by the National Taskforce on Cervical Cancer Elimination, led by the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, to the State House in Abuja on World Health Day 2025, themed “Healthy Beginnings; Hopeful Future.”
Speaking passionately at the event, Senator Tinubu urged Nigerian women to shun stigma and prioritize their health by seeking medical help early.
“No one chooses illness. There’s no shame in seeking help. A healthy nation is a wealthy nation,” she said, reiterating her commitment to health advocacy, especially for women and children.
Commending the Taskforce’s holistic approach—testing, screening, vaccinating, and treatment—the First Lady pledged continued support in advancing the nation’s healthcare goals.
“We are on track,” she said, “and I believe we can win the fight against cervical cancer if patients present early.”
The First Lady’s donation is seen as a major boost to national efforts, especially following the introduction of the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine into the country’s routine immunization schedule. According to Dr. Salako, over 12 million girls aged 9–13 have already been vaccinated within the first nine months of the rollout. The Ministry aims to immunize another 6 million girls in 2025.
Prof. Isaac Adewole, Chairman of the Taskforce and former Minister of Health, praised Senator Tinubu for her unwavering political will and advocacy. He projected that with sustained effort, the “8 by 8” target—immunizing eight million girls annually—could be achieved, paving the way for the elimination of cervical cancer by 2030.
World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative, Dr. Walter Mulombo, also appealed to the First Lady to spearhead the national campaign, noting that her influence could galvanize support and save countless lives.
The First Lady was presented with WHO souvenirs in recognition of her leadership and the visit marked a significant milestone in aligning national health efforts with global health priorities.
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