The wife of the Ekiti State Governor, Dr. Olayemi Oyebanji, has urged women to prioritize their health and reduce lifestyle choices that may negatively impact their wellbeing.
She made the call at the 2025 Breast and Cervical Cancer Awareness Programme held at the Funmi Adunni Olayinka Diagnostic and Wellness Centre, Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Ado-Ekiti.
Speaking on this year’s theme, “No One Should Fight Cancer Alone,” Dr. Oyebanji reaffirmed state government’s commitment to ensuring that every woman has access to timely breast and cervical cancer screening. She explained that the government-sponsored free mammograms and cervical screening were introduced to eliminate financial barriers that often discourage women from seeking early medical care.
“My sincere appeal to all women is this: please make use of these medical facilities. Your health is priceless. Early detection through regular screening is the most powerful step you can take to protect yourself and your family,” she said.
The First Lady praised the medical team at the Funmi Adunni Olayinka Diagnostic and Wellness Centre for their dedication to cancer screening, routine checkups, counselling, and follow-up care services which she noted continue to bring hope to families across the state.
Expressing optimism, Dr. Oyebanji stated that with collective effort, Ekiti State can build a healthier and stronger society where no woman battles cancer alone.
In his welcome address, the Chief Medical Director of the Ekiti State University Teaching Hospital, Professor Kayode Oyebanji, encouraged Nigerians to embrace regular medical checkups to reduce deaths from terminal diseases.
Delivering a goodwill message on behalf of the Commissioner for Health and Human Resources, Dr. Oyebanji Filani, the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Olusola Gbenga-Ikotun, urged attendees to promote awareness about breast and cervical cancer within their communities.
Health experts, Dr. Julius Olaogun and Professor Olusola Aduloju, delivered lectures that highlighted risk factors such as multiple sexual partners, alcohol consumption, and genetic predisposition. They reiterated that early detection remains the most effective key to treatment and survival.
The event also featured testimonies from two cancer survivors, Mrs. Toyin Odeyemi and Mrs. Bukola Adara, who shared their experiences battling the disease and encouraged women to embrace regular health checkups.