By Maria Famakinwa & Kemi Olatunde
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Early detection and treatment of breast cancer have been described as the gateway to patient’s survival of the terminal disease.

Wife of the Ondo State Governor, Arabinrin Betty Anyanwu-Akeredolu made the disclosure  in Akure while declaring open a zonal workshop with the theme, “Expanding the Capacity of Medical and Health Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MHWUN) women towards the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals”, organised by MHWUN, Ondo State chapter.

Arabinrin Akeredolu who urged the participants from the three geo-political zones of the southern part of Nigeria to do more in every sphere of life added that consistent and proper self examination of the breast is very significant in early detection of breast cancer.

The wife of the Governor who survived breast cancer 21 years ago, explained that breast cancer is purely a health issue and must be handled medically, stressing that women should report any strange observation in terms of lump(s), colour, shape, size or otherwise noticed in their breast to the hospital immediately.

She recommended the fun filled self breast examination technique (sekem dance) for every woman, stating that it should be inculcated into their routine.

Meanwhile, the First Lady has called for active women participation in local politics, saying it serves as entry point for mainstreaming women into the larger politics.

She added that there’s need for increase in the number of female representation at all levels of government in order to strategize on issues affecting women.

Other highlights of the event include self breast examination, lectures on women empowerment and development among others.

In his welcome address, the state Chairman of the union, Comrade Fetus Ekehinde, stated that the union has always been playing a leading role among other unions in implementing the 2000 Beijing declaration by empowering women in participating in various union activities.

While commending the executives of the union for working effortlessly in ensuring a better union,  he frowned at the incessant kidnapping and insecurity in the southern part of the country saying “just like the Boko-Haram insurgency threatens the peace of Nigerians in the North East, so also the threat of kidnapping and stealing of women under wears has become a nightmare in the southern part of Nigeria .

He specifically expressed appreciation to the state governor, Arakunrin Oluwarotimi Akeredolu for organizing the first of its kind security summit which according to him has helped in tackling the challenges of security in the state.

In her welcome address the state Chairperson (Women Committee), Mrs. Olufunke Owolabi noted that the event provides the avenue to discuss issues that affect women as unionists,  saying “it is particularly difficult to be a career woman, an activist,  a wife and a mother at the same time.”

In his address, MHWUN President, Comrade Biobelemoye Josiah presented by Comrade Sunny Osayande noted that the union can only attain predetermined level when it adequately mainstream women and youths.