Headquarters 9 Brigade Holds Sensitization Lectures In Commemoration Of World Breast Cancer Month

Headquarters 9 Brigade Holds Sensitization Lectures In Commemoration Of World Breast Cancer Month

Headquarters 9 Brigade, in collaboration with Nigerian Army Officers Wives’ Association (NAOWA), 9 Brigade Zone, held a sensitization lecture on Breast Cancer Awareness and Practical Clinical on Self-Breast Examination. The event took place on 22 October 2025 at the 9 Brigade Garrison training shed.

In his opening remarks, the Commander 9 Brigade Nigerian Army (NA), Brigadier General Olawale Matthew Oyekola, said, the sensitization lecture is aimed at raising awareness about breast cancer, promote early screening, detection and reduce the risk of the disease through supportive research and treatment initiatives.

In his words. “The commemoration of this year’s breast cancer awareness by Headquarters 9 Brigade reaffirms our total commitment to equitable access to medical care and improved survival for all NA personnel and their family members affected by this scourge. This sensitization lecture is in consonance with the Chief of Army Staff Command Philosophy and Soldier First Mantra, which emphasis the optimal health and general wellbeing of soldiers and their families at all times. In line with this, 9 Brigade will continue to collaborate with NAOWA and other relevant organisations to provide necessary support to our men and their families.”

Brigadier General Oyekola implored the women to take advantage of the sensitization lecture and practical clinic session to check themselves and learn about the causes, prevention, and symptoms of breast cancer and also help others in need with the knowledge to be gained.

The goodwill message of NAOWA Coordinator 9 Brigade Zone was delivered by Mrs Hanifatu Ahmed who encouraged participants to take full advantage of the awareness program to ascertain their status considering the amount to carry out individual consultation as being provided through the programme. She added that a more elaborate programme is being planned to accommodate more women within the Cantonment.

The facilitators of the sensitization lecture under the supervision of Commmanding Officer 9 Brigade Medical Center were Dr Eli Unominum, Dr Alonge Toluwani, Dr Eyitayo Jesulayomi, and Dr Oluduro Morenikeji. The facilitators took the participants through series of lectures and practical self-examination for the detection of early symptoms of breast cancer. They also gave tips on the prevention of breast cancer, such as long breastfeeding for lactating mothers, for up to the period of 18 – 24 months, among others.