More than 500 participants gathered in Abuja on 4 February as Equitable Medicaid and Clinical Research hosted The Big Walk (Cancer No Be King) to commemorate World Cancer Day. The 5.6-kilometre awareness walk brought together government officials, diplomats, security agencies, health experts, advocacy groups, and members of the public in a united call for early detection, timely treatment, and sustained public education on cancer.
Participants assembled at 7:00 a.m. at the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs Headquarters. At 8:00 a.m., the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, H.E. Hajiya Imaan-Sulaiman Ibrahim, delivered the opening remarks, stressing the importance of cancer screening, access to care, and compassion for families affected by the disease. The walk commenced at 8:20 a.m., moving through the Ministry of Health, Nitel Junction Wuse II, and Transcorp Hilton, before concluding at Millennium Park where the remaining activities were held.
The event received wide institutional support. Equitable Medicaid and Clinical Research expressed sincere appreciation to United Nations Women, the Ambassadors of Norway and Germany, GIZ, the Ministry of Women Affairs, the Nigerian Army, Air Force and Navy, the Ministry of Police Affairs, the Ministry of Science and Technology, National Institute for Cancer Research and Treatment, the National Troupe of Nigeria, the Institute of Human Virology, Secure-D-Future Initiative, JUWACI, Cancer Convos with Grace, and other agencies and development partners whose presence strengthened the message of the day.
German Ambassador to Nigeria H.E Annett Günther delivered a goodwill message drawing attention to Germany’s continued support for cancer awareness, prevention, and research cooperation.
Representatives of the Norwegian Ambassador, the Nigerian Army, and the Minister of Women Affairs also delivered key messages, stressing the shared responsibility of institutions and citizens in confronting the rising cancer burden.
At Millennium Park, participants observed moments of reflection to honour lives lost to cancer. Survivors and health professionals shared personal and professional perspectives that added depth to the day’s theme.
Dr. Sa’adatu Adamu spoke on “Mental Health Management of Cancer,” drawing attention to the emotional and psychological strain faced by patients and families. She spoke about the need to confront fear, discrimination, and negative public attitudes that sometimes prevent individuals from seeking timely care.
Barrister Dorathy Achumba, a cancer survivor, shared her testimony in a session titled “Surviving Cancer.” Her story of diagnosis, treatment, and recovery encouraged participants to prioritise early screening and seek medical attention promptly when symptoms arise.
World Cancer Day brings attention to the burden of cancer and the need for early detection and timely care. The Big Walk created space for remembrance, solidarity, and renewed advocacy for screening services and improved access to treatment facilities.
Cancer is a challenge that affects families and communities everywhere. We must continue to promote awareness, encourage screening, and support access to treatment so that fewer lives are lost to preventable causes.
