In a significant boost to Nigeria's healthcare sector, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has donated ₦1 billion to the National Cancer Fund, reinforcing the nation's commitment to combating cervical cancer. This generous contribution, made during a pivotal meeting with the National Taskforce on Cervical Cancer Elimination, aligns with the global observance of World Health Day 2025, underscoring the importance of proactive healthcare initiatives.

The donation was warmly received by health officials, who lauded Senator Tinubu's ongoing support for the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination program. This program has already made substantial strides, reaching over 12 million girls across Nigeria, offering them protection against a virus that is a primary cause of cervical cancer.

During the meeting, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare and leader of the National Taskforce on Cervical Cancer Elimination, acknowledged the First Lady's unwavering commitment to healthcare. Senator Tinubu used the occasion to encourage Nigerians, particularly women, to prioritize their health and seek medical assistance without hesitation when faced with health challenges.

"I am in support of what you are doing. We are on track especially with the approach you have adopted, test, screen, vaccinate and treatment," she stated, emphasizing the critical role of early diagnosis and treatment in improving survival rates. She also highlighted the interconnectedness of health and national prosperity, asserting that "A healthy nation is a wealthy nation."

Reflecting on the theme of this year’s World Health Day, 'Healthy Beginnings; Hopeful Future,' Senator Tinubu connected it with her health-focused initiatives, emphasizing that the well-being of a nation’s people is fundamental to its overall development. The ₦1 billion donation is strategically aimed at bolstering national efforts to eliminate cervical cancer through early detection programs, heightened awareness campaigns, and widespread vaccination efforts.

Dr. Salako expressed his gratitude for the First Lady's advocacy and public support for integrating the HPV vaccine into Nigeria’s routine immunization program. He noted that her support has been instrumental in enabling the Ministry of Health to vaccinate over 12 million girls aged 9 to 13 within the first nine months of the program's implementation. The Ministry aims to extend this coverage to an additional 6 million girls this year.

Former Minister of Health and Chairman of the National Taskforce on Cervical Cancer Elimination, Prof. Isaac Adewole, lauded Senator Tinubu’s support as a demonstration of strong political will. He expressed confidence that the ambitious goal of vaccinating 8 million girls annually could be achieved with the First Lady's continued advocacy. The campaign is set to cover 12 states in 2025 and another 12 in 2026, progressively expanding its reach across the nation.

World Health Organization (WHO) Country Representative, Dr. Walter Mulombo, appealed to the First Lady to serve as the campaign’s national figurehead, emphasizing that every woman and child deserves the opportunity for a healthy life. The event also served as a platform for World Health Day celebrations, during which the WHO delegation presented commemorative souvenirs to the First Lady.

This contribution follows a recent emotional tribute by Senator Tinubu to her husband, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on his 73rd birthday, where she celebrated his resilience, courage, and leadership.