The Chairperson of the Nigerian Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA), 1 Division Chapter, Dr. Mrs. Halima Tafida-Wase, has urged women to take breast cancer screening seriously, saying the disease is not a death sentence when detected early.
Dr. Tafida-Wase made the call during the 2025 NAOWA Cancer Awareness Week held at the Association’s Secretariat in Kaduna.
The event, themed “My Breast and I,” brought together medical experts, survivors, and Army Officers’ wives to promote early detection and regular screening.
Dr. Tafida-Wase said “the campaign aims to remind women that their health is their greatest asset and that self-examination remains a key step in saving lives.”
She said; “Early detection saves lives. Breast cancer is not a death sentence; when discovered early, it can be treated successfully.
“For too long, many women have suffered in silence out of fear, shame, or lack of awareness. Today, we are breaking that silence.”
Dr Tafida-Wase called on women to regularly examine their breasts and report any unusual changes to medical professionals.
She also commended healthcare workers, survivors, and volunteers for their commitment to raising awareness, describing them as “true heroes whose courage continues to inspire others.”
The NAOWA Chairperson further appreciated the wife of the Chief of Army Staff for initiating life-changing programmes that promote the health and well-being of women across army formations.
“Your health is your wealth. Don’t wait for pain before you act. Know your body, care for it, and never be afraid to seek help,” she added.
Also speaking, a medical surgeon and breast cancer awareness advocate, Dr. Rabi’a Adams, said the campaign was designed to educate women on the signs and symptoms of breast cancer and encourage early medical intervention.
NAN