The Kogi State Chapter of the Youth Coalition Against Cancer (YOCAC) has launched a cancer awareness campaign, urging residents to embrace healthy lifestyles, avoid tobacco use and seek early medical attention.
According to a statement by the chapter’s Media and Experience Officer, Yabagi Mohammed, the campaign, tagged Paint for Hope Against Cancer, uses creative expression to promote cancer awareness, prevention and hope.
Speaking at the launch, the State Coordinator, Comrade Iliyasu Zakari, thanked members for their commitment and urged them to intensify efforts to educate residents, particularly young people, on cancer prevention and early detection.
Zakari pledged to mobilise the chapter towards achieving YOCAC’s objectives in Kogi State.
The National Coordinator of Project Paint for Hope 2026 and National Spokesman of YOCAC, Babatunde Fanisi, called for sustained public education on cancer and assured the state chapter of the national body’s support.
Fanisi warned against the growing acceptance of shisha smoking among young people, noting that tobacco use increases the risk of several cancers. He urged residents to avoid tobacco products, eat balanced diets and exercise regularly.
The Deputy State Coordinator, Comrade Anthony Osagbemi, said cancer was not limited to foreign countries, noting that Nigerians, including residents of Kogi State, were also affected.
Osagbemi expressed concern over the loss of young lives to cancer and called for increased public awareness, preventive health practices and timely medical attention.
He urged residents to maintain healthy eating habits, exercise regularly and seek medical advice when they notice persistent or unusual changes in their bodies. He also cautioned against self-medication and reliance on unverified remedies.
Osagbemi stressed that early detection and appropriate medical care could improve treatment outcomes for many cancers, urging residents to consult qualified health professionals on recommended screening.
He called on families, schools, healthcare professionals, communities and the media to work together to dispel misconceptions about cancer and promote reliable health information.
A major highlight of the event was the creation of artworks depicting cancer-related themes, with messages of prevention, hope and solidarity with people affected by the disease.
