By Femi Anamelechi
The Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), Port & Terminal Multi-Services Limited (PTML) Chapter in a bid to eradicate the menace and growing rate of Breast Cancer amongst women , has embarrassed on global campaign against breast cancer following the flag-off of a free breast cancer screening initiative to promoting early detection and saving lives.The ground breaking initiative kicked off on Wednesday, 22 October 2025, at the PTML Area Command, brought together COWA members, female customs officers, stakeholders, and members of the maritime community to sensitize and create necessary awareness on the importance of regular health checks and early diagnosis.
The Chairperson of COWA PTML Chapter, Mrs. Caroline Anani, expressed appreciation to the National President of COWA, Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, for her exemplary leadership and continuous support.During her speech at the eventthat, she pointed out that breast cancer remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, with many cases diagnosed at advanced stages due to low awareness and limited access to medical resources.“Cancer does not discriminate — it touches boardrooms and communities alike — and neither should our response to it. We must stand united, informed, and unyielding in education and prevention about it”, she said. Mrs Anani announced that the PTML Chapter would offer free breast screening throughout the month of October, encouraging both members and non-members to take advantage of the initiative. According to her:“This is one of the many ways we shall be reaching out to women because a sound health is the backbone of a happy life”.
Comptroller Joe Anani in charge of PTML Area Command during his opening speech, commended COWA for its proactive approach to health advocacy.“This programme speaks to a very important issue that concerns us as family members. Today, COWA PTML Chapter is helping to bridge the awareness gap and create access to testing, the foundation of breast cancer prevention and management”, He further disclosed that early detection remains the most effective way to combat the disease. He urged COWA members, female officers, licensed customs agents, and stakeholders to take advantage of the opportunity.The Customs Area Controller of Kirikiri Lighter Terminal (KLT) Command, Comptroller Joy Edeldouk in her address commended the initiative.She called on all women to prioritise their health. “It is only a healthy wife that can be a valuable wife to her husband, and it’s only a valuable wife that can give her husband rest”, she remarked.The COWA PTML Chapter Breast Cancer awareness campaign featured discussions on risk factors, symptoms, and prevention strategies for breast cancer,The session ended with an interactive question-and-answer segment that provided participants with vital insights on health management and preventive care.
