By Osemudiamhen Gloria
In commemoration of the year 2025 International Day of Cervical Cancer, themed, “United by Unique,” the Edo State Government in collaboration with the Edo State Specialist Hospital (ESH) has organised a free cancer sensitisation and screening exercise at the ESH premises in Benin City.
In her remarks, the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, commended the Chief Medical Director (CMD) of ESH, Dr. Mrs. Anthonia Njoku, for her efforts in organising the programme. She highlighted the importance of the exercise to include the reawakening of consciousness on imbibing preventive measures, screening for early detection, prompt treatment, amongst others.
Mrs. Anani’s speech read in parts, “It is with a deep sense of responsibility that I address you today to round up the Cervical Cancer Week. Today is dedicated to raising awareness, educating our people and strengthening the fight against cervical cancer. This is not just a reminder of the challenges posed by cervical cancer but also a call to action, a call for prevention, early detection and improved treatment to save lives”.
She quoted the World Health Organisation (WHO), saying Cancer remains the leading cause of death worldwide and asserted that the reality underscores the urgency of collective efforts to reduce the impacts of cancer on individuals, families and communities.
Mrs. Anani reiterated the Governor Monday Okpebholo-led administration’s commitment to prioritising the health and well-being of citizens, particularly women. “Here in Edo State under the leadership of his Excellency, Distinguished Sen. Monday Okpebholo, this Government is committed to strengthening health care infrastructure and promoting policies that enhance cancer prevention and treatment. We are putting in place mechanisms to improve early detection, increase awareness and provide better access to quality health care services. These efforts are already benefitting individuals, families and communities across our States,” she said.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Adams Oshiomole emphasized the State Government’s involvement in promoting the health of its citizens, stating, “This gathering is not just another health programme, it is a life-saving initiative aimed at protecting women of Edo State from one of the most preventable forms of cancers.
“Edo State is committed to improving health care services and ensuring that no woman in our State loses her life to a preventable disease. Today’s event at Edo Specialist Hospital, is a testament to this commitment. We are taking proactive steps to make cervical screening more accessible, affordable and routine parts of women’s health care.
“We will continue to collaborate with health care organisations and non-governmental bodies and international partners to strengthen our cancer prevention strategies. As we mark this occasion, let us remember that cervical cancer is not a death sentence. With regular screening, early detection and proper treatment, lives can be saved.”
The CMD of ESH, Dr. (Mrs.) Njoku expressed gratitude to the State Government for its collaboration in promoting awareness about cervical cancer and providing free screening services in commemoration of the Day. She testified that the Sen. Monday Okpebholo-led Government is passionate about the health sector and has shown tremendous support to its programmes.
Dignitaries present at the event included the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Dr. (Mrs.) Bisi Idahomen; the President of the Medical Women Association, Dr. Irene Aghide; medical professionals, amongst others.
Beneficiaries of the free screening exercise expressed gratitude to the Edo State Government and organisers of the programme, noting that the initiative was timely and impactful.
Highpoint of the event was a tour of the cervical cancer screening facility by Mrs. Anani and other dignitaries.
