By Clifford Ejenavi
In a landmark collaboration aimed at intensifying the fight against breast cancer, the Society of Occupational and Environmental Health Physicians of Nigeria (SOEHPON) has joined forces with the Breast Cancer Association of Nigeria (BRECAN) and Gridiron Gems to launch awareness campaign during the 2025 Breast Cancer Awareness Month in Lagos.
The joint initiative, tagged “Breast Cancer: Jog For Life Awareness Lagos 2025”, focuses on promoting early screening, education and emotional support for women in Nigeria. The campaign will feature free breast screening exercises and health walk in Lagos.
The walk will start at 7am on Saturday November 1, 2025 from Guinea Insurance Plc Car Park, opposite Ekeson Transport Company, Jibowu Bus stop, and end at Yaba College of Technology (YABATECH) Sports Field, Yaba, where free screening will take place.
President of SOEHPON, Dr. Musa Shaibu, emphasized the need for workplace-based cancer awareness, noting that occupational and environmental health professionals play a vital role in early detection and prevention.
“Our partnership with BRECAN and Gridiron Gems is a testament to the power of collaboration in saving lives. We are taking the message to offices, factories, and schools to ensure no woman is left unaware of the importance of regular screening,” he said.
Founder of BRECAN and former First Lady of Ondo State, Mrs. Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu, commended the partnership, describing it as a “critical step” toward reducing the alarming rate of late-stage breast cancer diagnosis in Nigeria.
“When organizations come together to drive awareness, we multiply our impact. Together, we can ensure that every woman understands that early detection is key,” she stated.
Gridiron Gems, a women-led sports and empowerment organization, added a dynamic twist to the campaign through fitness and sports-based events designed to encourage healthy living and attract youth participation.
The campaign will culminate in a grand Pink Awareness Walk and Medical Outreach, where survivors, advocates, and medical professionals will share their stories and experiences to inspire hope and resilience among women.
Organizers have called on government agencies, corporate bodies and the general public to support the initiative through participation, sponsorship and advocacy to help reduce breast cancer mortality rates in Nigeria.
