By Peace Udugba
OWERRI – Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting the First Ladies Against Cancer (FLAC) Nigeria, while calling on Nigerians to unite in the fight against cancer through increased awareness, prevention, early detection, and sustained advocacy.
The governor made the pledge during a courtesy visit by the FLAC delegation and later at a gala night held in their honour at the Government House, Owerri.
The event also featured emotional testimonies from cancer survivors, including men, women, and children, who recounted their experiences battling the disease. Their stories moved guests, while reinforcing the message that early detection offers hope for successful treatment.
Governor Uzodimma commended FLAC for its humanitarian services and dedication to improving cancer care across Nigeria.
“I am excited to host you in Imo State, and I commend your humanitarian services in Nigeria,” the governor said, assuring the delegation of his administration’s continued support for the organisation’s programmes.
He described Imo as the “hospitality capital of the South-East,” welcomed the delegates on behalf of the government and people of the state, and assured them of their safety throughout their stay.
Speaking at the gala night, the governor stressed that the fight against cancer requires collective action through public awareness, education, and shared responsibility.
He also praised the President Bola Tinubu-led Federal Government for its investment in cancer prevention, treatment, and palliative care, urging Nigerians to support ongoing healthcare reforms.
“We need a new Nigeria where everyone participates in nation-building,” he said, adding that early detection and efforts to eliminate the stigma associated with cancer are essential to improving healthcare outcomes.
Earlier, the Chairperson of FLAC Nigeria and wife of the Imo State Governor, Barr. Chioma Uzodimma, said the delegation visited to appreciate Governor Uzodimma’s unwavering support for the organisation’s activities and advocacy.
She noted that FLAC, whose membership comprises current and former First Ladies across Nigeria, celebrates cancer survivors every June to inspire hope and raise awareness about the disease. She described Governor Uzodimma as “a special friend of FLAC.”
Mrs. Uzodimma also presented the governor with an award on behalf of FLAC in recognition of his unwavering commitment to the organisation’s mission.
The gala night featured a variety of activities, including musical performances, a fashion parade by cancer survivors, comedy, cake cutting, photo sessions, presentation of cash gifts and other items to cancer survivors, as well as a fundraising drive to support FLAC’s advocacy programmes.
More than ₦100 million was raised during the event to support the organisation’s ongoing cancer awareness and advocacy initiatives, according to the FLAC Chairperson.
The delegation included the wives of the governors of Adamawa, Zamfara, and Ogun states—Hajia Lami Ahmed Fintiri, Hajia Huriyya Dauda Lawal, and Mrs.
Bamidele Abiodun, respectively—as well as the immediate past FLAC Chairperson, Dr. Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu; former First Lady of Niger State, Dr. Amina Abubakar; former First Lady of Oyo State and Ambassador-designate, Dr. Florence Ajumobi, among other distinguished guests.
