In commemoration of International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD) 2025, the Akanimo Cancer Foundation, a non-governmental organisation, has launched a nationwide awareness campaign to highlight the challenges faced by children battling cancer in Nigeria. The initiative aims to educate the public, raise awareness about early detection, and advocate for increased support for young cancer patients and […]
In commemoration of International Childhood Cancer Day (ICCD) 2025, the Akanimo Cancer Foundation launched a nationwide awareness campaign in Nigeria to address the challenges faced by children with cancer. The initiative aims to educate the public about early detection, advocate for increased support for young cancer patients, and highlight the importance of timely diagnosis and treatment. According to Uchechukwu Nwokwu, national coordinator of the National Cancer Control Programme, 7.2% of Nigeria's 127,000 annual cancer cases involve children, with an 80% survival rate when diagnosed early. Dr. Idorenyin Usoh of the Akanimo Cancer Foundation emphasized the need for advocacy and policy inclusion to combat the "silent crisis" of childhood cancer, as many cases are diagnosed too late. The foundation, led by Mrs. Idara Ekanem, also supports research into better treatments and aims to reduce the financial burden of cancer treatment for indigent families. The campaign was held simultaneously in Abuja, Lagos, Ibadan, Uyo, Kano, and Port Harcourt to raise awareness and support for childhood cancer.
