Delta Backs Citizen-Led Cancer Advocacy with N10m Grant
The Delta State Government on Thursday in Asaba donated N10 million to support a nationwide cancer awareness and patient-support initiative led by Miss Chineyenwa Judith Amadi, an Imo State-born advocate, in a move aimed at strengthening citizen-driven responses to cancer and easing the burden of care on affected families.
The cheque presentation, which took place at the Conference Hall of the Secretary to the State Government, was made in support of Amadi’s project, A Ride for Life, a fundraising and advocacy campaign designed to provide financial assistance and moral support to cancer patients across Nigeria.
Presenting the donation on behalf of the state government, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr Kingsley Emu, described cancer as “one of the most devastating diseases confronting contemporary society” and disclosed that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori personally approved the donation as a mark of support for the humanitarian initiative.
“This is our contribution, our statement of solidarity, and our commitment to humanity,” Dr Emu said, noting that the intervention reflected the state’s resolve to back initiatives focused on reducing human suffering.
He added that cancer continues to place enormous strain on families, communities, and the healthcare system, stressing the need for collaborative efforts that ease the physical, emotional, and financial burden associated with the disease.
According to him, the state government is also taking steps to establish a cancer treatment facility in Delta to improve access to quality care and reduce the need for residents to seek treatment outside the state.
Dr Emu further commended Miss Amadi for undertaking a transcontinental motorbike ride across 16 countries to draw attention to cancer awareness and patient support, describing the effort as a demonstration of uncommon dedication.
“This is not just about goodwill; it is about providing the right information, guidance, and support to help initiatives like this achieve their objectives and make a real impact,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, the State Commissioner for Health, Dr Joseph Onojaeme, underscored the importance of preventive healthcare, particularly early detection, in reducing cancer-related deaths. He stressed that routine medical checks, especially for cervical and breast cancer, remain critical to saving lives.
In her response, Miss Amadi expressed appreciation to the Delta State Government for the financial support, explaining that A Ride for Life was created to assist cancer patients who are unable to afford treatment while also offering them hope and encouragement.
“This journey is deeply personal for me. I have lost loved ones to cancer, and I also have loved ones who have survived it. I am currently very close to someone who is battling cancer, and that experience is what truly inspired this project,” she said.
Meanwhile, in a related health intervention within the state, a civic organisation, the Texas Elites Forum, has concluded its 2025 end-of-year activities with a series of health, youth, and education-focused programmes in Orerokpe community, Delta State.
The four-day programme, held from December 27 to 30, featured a two-day free medical outreach at the Orerokpe Primary Health Care Centre in collaboration with the Grace Oghoghorie Foundation.
Over 1,300 residents reportedly benefited from free medical consultations, essential drugs, basic diagnostic tests, and medical referrals, reinforcing ongoing community-based efforts to improve access to healthcare services.
