NDC Hosts Cancer Awareness Seminar to Mark World Cancer Day 2026

In commemoration of World Cancer Day 2026, the National Defence College (NDC) Nigeria organized a high-level Sensitization seminar, themed “United to Unique”. The seminar aimed at bolstering cancer awareness, prevention and management strategies. The event, held on Friday, February 6, at the Abacha Hall of the College, brought together medical experts, policymakers, and the college community to address the escalating global threat of the disease.

Prioritizing Early Detection

The Commandant of the NDC, Rear Admiral Abdullahi Ahmed, opened the seminar by emphasizing that early detection remains the most potent weapon in the fight against cancer. He noted that proactive diagnosis not only saves lives but significantly alleviates the immense economic burden placed on families and the healthcare system.

“Cancer is a global public health challenge, the Commandant stated. However, through early diagnosis and timely intervention, we can dramatically improve survival rates and outcomes for our personnel and the wider community.”

Comprehensive Prevention Strategies

Delivering the keynote lecture, Dr Isioma Lilian, a Consultant Family Physician at the NDC Medical Centre, provided a deep dive into the global cancer burden. She outlined a three-tiered approach to combating the disease:

Primary Prevention: Adopting healthy lifestyles, including balanced diets, regular physical activity, and vaccinations.

Secondary Prevention: Engaging in organized screening programs for early-stage diagnosis.

Tertiary Prevention: Focus on early treatment and supportive care to reduce complications and improve quality of life.

Perspectives on Alternative Medicine

The seminar also explored diverse medical perspectives. Engr. Ali Musa Audu, a practitioner of traditional medicine, advocated for the integration of alternative therapies in managing ailments such as ulcers and cancer. He argued that traditional methods often present fewer side effects and presented visual evidence regarding their efficacy in disease management.

Community Engagement and Direct Action

The lecture transitioned into a dynamic Q&A session moderated by Dr. Okereke of the NDC Medical Centre, allowing participants to clarify myths and seek expert advice.

Commodore BA Francis, Director of Administration, expressed his gratitude to the Commandant for his leadership and thanked the resource persons for their contributions.

Similarly, the Coordinator of the National Defence College Officers’ Wives Association (NDCOWA), Hajia Hauwa Abdullahi Ahmed, lauded the initiative, noting that the seminar empowered participants, particularly women to become more health-conscious.

Impactful Health Interventions

Reinforcing its commitment to the well-being of its personnel, the NDC provided free screenings for prostate and cervical cancer following the seminar.

The event saw a high-profile turnout, including:

• Major General KO Ukandu, Deputy Commandant and Director of Studies.
• Principal Staff Officers and College staff.
• Members of NDCOWA and the National Defence College Non-Commissioned Officers’ Wives Association (NDCNCOWA) and
• National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members serving at the College.