By Ada Nkong
The Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), FCT Chapter has urged women to undertake early and regular cancer screening.
The call was made at its June 2025 Congress for women across the country to take advantage of free cancer screening opportunities, warning that ignorance and late detection are major causes of avoidable deaths among women.
The Congress, presided over by Chairperson Comrade Bassey Ita Ikpang, featured robust discussions on the health, safety, and socio-political inclusion of Nigerian women, the state of the nation, and the welfare of association members.
The congress featured presentation of results to female journalists who recently participated in a free cancer screening exercise.
Addressing members, Dr. Tessy Ahmadu, Consultant Radiation and Clinical Oncologist from FMC Jabi, who led the cancer screening team applauded NAWOJ FCT for its participation in the free screening exercise during the March 2025 International Women’s Day celebration. She emphasized that journalists were deliberately prioritized because of their unique ability to tell impactful stories that could drive behavioral change in society.
“Cancer is not a death sentence,” Dr. Ahmadu stressed. “But early detection is our best weapon. We need journalists to help demystify the myths around screening, cultural, religious, or financial that deter women from taking charge of their health.”
She noted that over 100 NAWOJ FCT members benefitted from the Thermalytix-based screening method and urged feedback for further advocacy toward its official adoption in Nigeria.
On the state of the nation, Congress commended the President of Nigeria for honoring distinguished Nigerians during the 2025 Democracy Day celebrations but decried the gross underrepresentation of women, noting that only three women made the list.
It also applauded FCT Minister Nyesom Wike for responding to residents’ outcry by improving the water supply system in the capital territory, while also condemning the worsening state of insecurity, high cost of living, epileptic power supply, and attacks by bandits and criminal elements across Nigeria.
The Congress expressed outrage at the recent armed robbery attack on NAWOJ FCT Vice Chairperson Comrade Bolanle Ukpevo, who was ambushed in the heart of Abuja while returning from work. The association demanded urgent and decisive action from the government to stem the tide of violence.
“We will not remain silent as our lives and livelihoods are threatened daily,” said Comrade Ikpang. “Journalists must rise and report truth to power without fear or favor.”
While decrying the high cost of living and the attendant hardship, a call was made for government-funded palliatives and welfare packages for senior citizens, such as free healthcare and transportation, to reduce economic pressure on working-class relatives.
The Chairman, Comrade Bassey Ikpang in honor of World Blood Donor Day, urged members to voluntarily donate blood, debunking myths that women are not fit for blood donation.
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