Agency
The Chairperson of the Nigerian Army Officers’ Wives Association, 1 Division Chapter, Dr Halima Tafida-Wase, has said that breast cancer is not a death sentence when detected early.
Tafida-Wase stated this during the NAOWA Cancer Awareness Week 2025, held at the association’s secretariat, Ribadu Cantonment, NDA Old Site, Kaduna, on Sunday.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the theme of this year’s programme was “My Breast and I.”
She said the theme served as a reminder that a woman’s breast is not just a part of her body, but a part of her story, identity, and health.
“It is a call to pay attention, to listen to our bodies, and to care for ourselves the way we care for others,” she said.
According to her, many women have suffered in silence for too long due to fear, shame, or lack of awareness.
“But today, we are breaking that silence. We are saying loudly and clearly that early detection saves lives. Breast cancer is not a death sentence. When discovered early, it can be treated successfully,” she added.
Tafida-Wase stressed that awareness programmes remained important to educate, encourage, and empower women.
“Every woman here today should remember: know your breast. Examine your breasts regularly and report any unusual changes to your doctor. Let us remove the fear that often surrounds this topic. Let us replace it with knowledge, courage, and love for ourselves and one another,” she said.
She appreciated the doctors, nurses, survivors and volunteers who continued to champion the cause, describing them as heroes whose stories inspired many.
Tafida-Wase also commended the wife of the Chief of Army Staff for the initiative, noting that her concern for women’s health across formations was deeply commendable.
“Your health is your wealth. Don’t wait for pain before you act. Know your body, take care of it, and never be afraid to seek help. Together, let us build a community where no woman feels alone in this fight; where awareness replaces ignorance, and hope replaces fear,” she added.
Speaking also, a surgeon and breast cancer awareness advocate, Dr Rabi’a Adams, said the campaign was aimed at educating women on the signs and symptoms of breast cancer.
Adams said the initiative also encouraged women to seek prompt medical attention if they noticed any unusual changes.
“This is to teach women how to perform monthly breast self-examinations and to remain vigilant with regular check-ups,” she said.
She emphasised the importance of being proactive about personal health and urged women to prioritise their well-being, be aware of breast cancer risks, and take early steps to detect potential issues.
NAN
