Ogun Boosts Women’s Health with Free Cancer Screening Centre

Women in Ogun State have received a major boost in the fight against cancer, as the State Government commissioned a free Breast Screening Centre in Abeokuta to promote early detection and access to treatment.

The centre, which is the second of its kind in Nigeria, was established through a partnership between the Ogun State Government and Roche Healthcare as part of efforts to reduce cancer-related deaths among women.

Speaking during the commissioning on Tuesday, Governor Dapo Abiodun said the initiative aligns with his administration’s commitment to improving preventive healthcare, adding that budgetary provisions will be made to strengthen cancer awareness, early detection, and management.

“Cancer is no respecter of class or wealth. Early detection is key, and government cannot do it alone. We’ll continue to partner with stakeholders and include cancer screening in our health insurance scheme,” Abiodun stated.

The event drew the presence of prominent advocates for women’s health, including the wife of the Imo State Governor, Mrs. Chioma Uzodimma; wife of the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Dr. Zainab Bagudu — who is also the President-elect of the Union for International Cancer Control; wife of the Ogun State Governor, Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun; and the General Manager of Roche Healthcare, Dr. Ladipo Hammed.

Mrs. Uzodimma, who led the Cancer Awareness and Screening team, said the collaboration aims to empower women through education, screening, and financial support for those battling cancer.

“We are working to create awareness, pay hospital bills for patients, and strengthen advocacy. We also call for a Cancer Health Fund to support those who cannot afford treatment,” she said.

Mrs. Bamidele Abiodun described the donation of the screening centre at Oba Ademola Hospital, Abeokuta, as a “transformative gesture” that would save countless lives and deepen access to quality healthcare for women in the state.

Roche Healthcare’s General Manager, Dr. Ladipo Hammed, noted that the company’s involvement during Breast Cancer Awareness Month reflects its commitment to supporting Nigeria’s healthcare system.

Also speaking, Dr. Zainab Bagudu called for the institutionalisation of cancer awareness and screening within Nigeria’s health policy framework to ensure sustainability and nationwide impact.

The initiative marks another step in Ogun State’s growing investment in women’s health and preventive medicine, with the Government pledging to sustain collaborations that place citizens’ well-being at the centre of governance.