By Grace Alegba
Polaris Bank has commended its decades-long partnership with Care Organisation Public Enlightenment (C.O.P.E), a breast cancer awareness network dedicated to the fight against cancer in Nigeria.
The bank made this known during C.O.P.E’s 30th anniversary celebration in Lagos, pledging continued support for awareness, early detection, and patient care initiatives.
The Managing Director of Polaris Bank, Mr Kayode Lawal, said the partnership on early detection and treatment has helped reduce breast cancer mortality and improve survival rates nationwide.
He congratulated the organisation, expressing pride in being associated with its 30-year journey of hope, impact, and partnership.
Lawal, represented by the bank’s Group Head, Customer Experience and Sustainability, Mrs Bukola Oluyadi, said C.O.P.E’s three decades of service reflected dedication and resilience.
He noted that the NGO had touched many lives through awareness creation, community support, and advocacy, adding that Polaris Bank was proud to support such a noble cause.
“In particular, our partnership in supporting breast cancer initiatives has been a source of immense pride for us,” Lawal said.
He stated that the cause affected families nationwide, and the bank remained committed to promoting awareness, supporting early detection, and providing essential care.
“Together, we have worked to ensure that women and their families feel supported, informed, and empowered, and we look forward to continuing this journey.
“As C.O.P.E celebrates this milestone, we celebrate your remarkable achievements, the lives impacted, and the communities strengthened through your tireless work,” Lawal said.
He commended C.O.P.E’s commitment and vision, wishing the NGO greater success and a future of deeper impact and strengthened partnerships in community health initiatives.
Speaking further, Mrs Oluyadi stressed the importance of regular screening and early detection in the fight against breast cancer.
“Awareness is vital; everyone needs to examine themselves. Information is available on self-checks, and when unsure, people should go for screening,” she said.
Oluyadi noted that the partnership between Polaris Bank and C.O.P.E had spanned over two decades, providing consistent support for public enlightenment and access to screening.
She said the NGO offers a platform for monthly screenings, made possible by machines and interventions supported by partners like Polaris Bank.
Chairman, Board of Trustees, C.O.P.E, Emeritus Prof. Osato Giwa-Osagie, lauded the organisation’s Founder, Mrs Ebunola Anozie, for her leadership and resilience in achieving global recognition.
He said the board and patrons were committed to supporting C.O.P.E’s plan to acquire a permanent facility for breast cancer patients and survivors.
“The proposed centre will include a library, screening rooms, conference hall, and accommodation for women needing temporary care or recovery,” he said.
In her remarks, Anozie thanked Polaris Bank for its long-standing support and compassion for cancer patients and survivors across Nigeria.
She reaffirmed the NGO’s mission to reduce breast cancer mortality through screening, counselling, education, and continuous enlightenment.
Anozie also highlighted plans for a permanent comprehensive centre that will unite screening, counselling, research, education, and survivor support under one roof.
She said the organisation aims to reach 10 million women by 2030 through community education, expanded screenings, and partnerships for early detection.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was attended by survivors, volunteers, donors, and dignitaries, featuring music, dance, and the cutting of the anniversary cake. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
