Over 1,000 Join PinkNaija Walk 2026 in Port Harcourt to Promote Breast Cancer Awareness

On Saturday, October 10, 2026, more than 1,000 participants gathered at Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic in Rumuola, Port Harcourt, for the PinkNaija Walk 2026, a significant event aimed at raising awareness for breast cancer, promoting early detection, and improving access to cancer care. Organized by the Engraced Life Foundation (ELF), the annual eight-kilometer walk attracted a diverse crowd, including representatives from the Rivers State Government, health institutions, cancer organizations, survivors, students, and local business owners.

The event, themed "United By Unique—Every Story Matters. Every Life Counts," has been recognized since 2021 as a leading initiative for breast cancer awareness in Rivers State and the largest of its kind in the South-south region. Participants were energized by a warm-up session before embarking on the walk, which wound through Rumuola and surrounding areas, concluding back at the starting point.

Following the walk, attendees engaged in a community health fair featuring medical information booths, breast health demonstrations, health talks, games, and vendors. Free health screenings were also offered, with over 400 individuals receiving services that included breast and cervical cancer screenings, prostate checks, and blood pressure and blood sugar assessments.

Dr. Hope Avundaa, representing the Permanent Secretary of the Rivers State Ministry of Health, emphasized the importance of public awareness and early detection in improving health outcomes during her opening remarks. The event saw participation from various medical and institutional stakeholders, including the Nigerian Medical Association, the Medical Women’s Association of Nigeria, and the World Health Organization.

A highlight of the day was a parade led by the ELF medical team, showcasing the foundation's achievements, including its recent recognition by the Union for International Cancer Control (UICC). The foundation received the World Cancer Day Campaign Award for its PinkRoom Schools Outreach initiative, which aims to educate young people about cancer awareness and prevention.

Ethel Olumo, the founder of Engraced Life Foundation, expressed pride in the international recognition, stating that it affirms the foundation's efforts in local communities and underscores the importance of accessible health information. She noted that the award serves as a call to action to reach more individuals, particularly young girls and underserved women.

The event also provided a platform for cancer survivors to share their stories, fostering a sense of community and support. Among the participants was Benita Egone, a six-year survivor who traveled from Warri, Delta State, to inspire others with her journey. Dr. Ngozi Welle, another survivor and founder of VictoriousNG, also attended, celebrating the resilience of those affected by cancer.

The PinkNaija Walk 2026 not only marked the beginning of the foundation's October campaign but also set the stage for ongoing advocacy efforts. Tamunotonye Pamela Daniel, the National Coordinator of ELF, highlighted the foundation's commitment to extending its outreach beyond the event, focusing on communities with limited access to cancer information and screening services.

In the coming months, ELF plans to conduct further awareness and screening activities across Ekiti, Lagos, and Abia States, in addition to ongoing efforts in Rivers State. The foundation aims to connect participants with medical professionals and ensure that timely health information and screenings are accessible to all, regardless of their circumstances.

As the foundation prepares for World Cancer Day on February 4, 2027, it is also launching the PinkRoom Schools Outreach initiative, targeting 20 schools to provide age-appropriate education on breast and cervical health. This initiative aims to empower young girls with knowledge about their bodies and encourage open discussions about health concerns.

The PinkNaija Walk 2026 served as a powerful reminder of the collective responsibility to advocate for breast cancer awareness and support those affected by the disease. The message remains clear: every story matters, every life counts, and the fight against cancer requires ongoing commitment and action from all sectors of society.