The Federal Government has stepped up its commitment to fostering a healthier and more efficient workforce by organizing a wellness and fitness campaign for civil servants in Abuja.
This program, integrated into the monthly Federation of Public Service Games (FEPSGA) Walking and Jogging Exercise, offered complimentary cancer screenings alongside comprehensive health evaluations for employees from various Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
At the weekend event held at Moshood Abiola National Stadium, Abuja, Daju Kachollom, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, highlighted the government’s dedication to combating cancer in Nigeria through continuous awareness initiatives and early diagnosis efforts.
She described the campaign as a groundbreaking effort, revealing that Nigeria faces over 127,000 new cancer diagnoses each year, with breast cancer representing nearly a quarter of these cases.
Kachollom voiced concern over the fact that more than 80 percent of cancer patients in Nigeria are diagnosed at advanced stages, a stark contrast to developed countries where early detection significantly improves survival outcomes.
“The difference is evident; although developed nations report higher cancer incidence, countries like Nigeria experience greater mortality rates due to inadequate screening practices. This reality demands urgent action,” she stated.
Reaffirming the ministry’s role in leading the fight against cancer and other illnesses, Kachollom aligned these efforts with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
She further noted that the forthcoming National Council on Health meeting will advocate for the creation of State Cancer Control Programs and the implementation of routine screening services at regional levels.
“Cancer is a pressing and devastating challenge that affects us all. The most cost-effective and impactful strategy is prevention through lifestyle changes and consistent screening. Detecting cancer early saves lives,” she emphasized.
The health checks conducted included screenings for breast, cervical, prostate, and colorectal cancers, as well as assessments of blood pressure, blood glucose, hepatitis B and C status, and body mass index.
In her keynote speech, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, underscored that the initiative transcends physical fitness, representing the civil service‘s dedication to “health, vitality, and optimism.”
“Health is the foundation of service and progress,” she remarked, emphasizing that a robust and healthy civil service is essential for achieving the administration’s developmental objectives.
Speaking through Mrs. Patience Nwakuso Oyekunle, Permanent Secretary of the Service Welfare Office, Walson-Jack encouraged civil servants to utilize the free screening opportunities, lamenting the loss of many lives due to late-stage cancer detection.
Comrade Amaebi Aloku, National President of FEPSGA, expressed satisfaction with the event’s participation levels and praised the Federal Government, Permanent Secretaries, Directors, and sports coordinators for their unwavering support. He also announced that the 2025 FEPSGA Games are scheduled for November.
Mr. Kazeem Adewale Adenekan, Sports Manager of Team Humanitarian, extended gratitude to the ministry’s leadership for backing the team’s involvement and commended members for their dedication despite challenging weather conditions.
The event featured a variety of activities including fitness routines, aerobics sessions, health education talks, and award ceremonies recognizing Early Arrival, Best Dressed, Highest Attendance, and Best Conduct among MDAs.
The Federal Ministry of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction proudly secured the position of 3rd Best Dressed Team.
