The Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association (NAOWA), 17-Brigade chapter, Katsina, has organised a cancer awareness campaign and lecture series to commemorate the 2026 World Cancer Day.
Speaking at the event on Wednesday in Katsina, the Commander of 17-Brigade, Nigerian Army, Brigadier-General Maikarfi Ibrahim, described cancer as a major global public health challenge affecting people across age, gender and profession.
Represented by the Brigade’s Chief of Staff, Colonel N.A. Yakubu, Ibrahim said the burden of cancer could be significantly reduced through increased awareness, early detection and collective support.
He commended NAOWA for choosing a theme that highlights cancer prevention and early detection, noting that the initiative addressed health concerns affecting not only military families but the wider society.
According to him, the health and well-being of spouses and families within the military community are critical to operational effectiveness, family stability and overall readiness.
He said activities such as the lecture series play a vital role in educating and empowering women with the knowledge required to take proactive steps toward safeguarding their health.
Ibrahim praised the NAOWA leadership, particularly the 17-Brigade chapter, for sustaining cancer advocacy initiatives, adding that the association’s efforts aligned with the Nigerian Army’s welfare objectives and commitment to building a healthy and resilient military family.
He urged participants to engage actively with the resource persons and apply the knowledge gained beyond the event.
In her opening remarks, the NAOWA Zonal Coordinator, Mrs Jamimah Ibrahim, said the programme was organised to promote cancer prevention, encourage early detection and support those affected by the disease.
She noted that World Cancer Day serves as a reminder that cancer is not only a medical condition but a human challenge that affects families, communities and nations.
According to her, millions of lives are impacted by cancer annually, many of which could be prevented or successfully treated if detected early and properly managed.
She stressed that cancer does not discriminate, affecting people regardless of age or social status, and said its impact could be reduced through education, awareness and access to quality healthcare.
Mrs Ibrahim called for proactive cancer prevention measures, including regular health screenings, healthy lifestyle choices, avoidance of tobacco and excessive alcohol consumption, balanced diets, physical activity, and support for vaccination programmes.
She also urged stakeholders to work toward breaking the stigma associated with cancer.