Mirian Gom 
Dr Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu (centre) and other women leaders during the “One Walk, One Fight” cancer awareness campaign in Abuja.
ABUJA, Nigeria – Over 1,000 women took to the streets of Abuja on Saturday in a powerful show of solidarity against cancer, led by Founder of the Medicaid Cancer Foundation and Wife of the Minister of Budget and National Planning, Dr Zainab Shinkafi-Bagudu.
Themed “One Walk, One Fight — Walk Away Cancer,” the march brought together survivors, health advocates, and political leaders, united in their call for early detection, prevention, and stronger government support to combat one of Africa’s deadliest diseases.
Shinkafi-Bagudu urged all tiers of government, lawmakers, and development partners to invest in cancer awareness and care.
“Cancer is not a death sentence,” she declared. “It is curable and preventable when detected early. Today, we walk for hope, for survivors, and for every life we can still save.”
The walk featured Minister of Women Affairs, Hajiya Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, and Special Adviser to the President on Health, Dr Salma Anas, who reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to cancer control under the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“The president is determined to stop cancer through the establishment of diagnostic centres across all six geopolitical zones,” Anas said.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim emphasised teamwork and early screening as lifesaving strategies.
“No one can win this battle alone. Together, we can beat cancer,” she said.
Wife of the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mrs Fatima Abbas, also lent her voice to the campaign.
“Through the Medicaid Foundation, Dr Shinkafi-Bagudu has touched countless lives, spreading hope, care, and courage,” she said.
The event’s highlights included free HPV vaccinations and eye screenings, underscoring the importance of preventive healthcare.
Shinkafi-Bagudu said the annual walk would continue to unite voices and drive awareness across Africa.
“Every step we take is a message — that cancer can be defeated,” she said.
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Oluwafunbi Bello 
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