By WALBE OGAK
The war against cancer in Nigeria has gained fresh momentum as the Georgel Cancer Foundation embarked on another strategic advocacy visit — this time to Highland FM, Jos, Plateau State. The visit underscored the Foundation’s resolve to strengthen collaborations with the media in order to expand its cancer awareness and education programmes.
During the courtesy call, the Chairperson of the Foundation, Mrs. Retsum George, accompanied by pioneer member Nurse Christy Yilwatda Ngwan, spoke passionately about the mission of the organisation. She explained that the Foundation was established in memory of her late husband, Mr. George, who succumbed to cancer, after a painful battle with the disease. According to her, the painful experience of loss became the motivation to transform grief into purposeful advocacy.
The Media as a Lifeline
Mrs. George emphasized that cancer remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, with thousands of new cases reported annually. She pointed out that, despite medical advances, public ignorance, fear, and late presentation at hospitals remain some of the greatest threats to survival.
“The media is a lifeline in this struggle,” she said. “If the public is well-informed, more people will go for screening, more patients will seek treatment early, and fewer families will be left in despair. That is why we are seeking this partnership with Highland FM — to use their wide reach to save lives.”
Supporting her position, Nurse Christy Ngwan highlighted the critical role of continuous sensitization. She noted that cancer is not a death sentence when detected early, stressing that educational campaigns, especially through radio, have the power to dispel myths, break cultural barriers, and encourage lifestyle changes.
Highland FM’s Pledge
In his response, a representative of the General Manager of Highland FM, applauded the Foundation for its courage and vision. He assured that the station would collaborate with the group in broadcasting health programmes, jingles, and interviews that would enlighten the public about cancer prevention and treatment options.
“We believe in partnerships that touch lives. Highland FM will work with the Georgel Cancer Foundation to make sure the right information gets to our people,” the official stated.
Symbolic Gesture
The visit was rounded off with the presentation of resource materials, publications, and branded souvenirs from the Foundation to the Highland FM management, symbolizing the beginning of what both parties described as a fruitful partnership.
Cancer Burden in Nigeria
Recent health statistics reveal that Nigeria records over 100,000 new cancer cases annually, with breast, cervical, and prostate cancers topping the list. Experts say that lack of awareness, high cost of treatment, and poor access to healthcare facilities remain major hurdles in addressing the scourge.
In Plateau State, medical practitioners have repeatedly called for more robust public enlightenment campaigns, stressing that ignorance and stigma continue to claim avoidable lives. This, stakeholders insist, is where civil society organisations and the media must work hand in hand.
The Foundation’s Wider Vision
Beyond media engagement, the Georgel Cancer Foundation has lined up several programmes, including free medical screenings, community outreaches, survivor support networks, and educational seminars. Mrs. George disclosed that the Foundation is also working towards partnerships with government health institutions and international organisations to improve access to diagnostic facilities and treatment for indigent patients.
She added: “Our vision is to build a society where cancer no longer strikes fear, where survivors can tell their stories, and where families can find hope instead of despair. But to achieve this, we must all play our part — the government, medical professionals, the media, and the community.”
A Call to Action
As the Foundation continues its advocacy drive, the partnership with Highland FM Jos marks another milestone in its growing network of stakeholders. Both organisations expressed optimism that the collaboration would set the pace for more aggressive cancer awareness campaigns in Plateau and beyond.
For many observers, the visit is more than a courtesy call — it is a call to action, reminding society that cancer is not just a medical issue, but a communal challenge requiring collective responsibility.
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